MLN vs VYM
MLN vs VYM
VanEck Long Muni ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLN | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $691M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.66% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 682 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.48% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.50% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.76% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -1.61% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 42.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -62.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | VanEck | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Tax Preferred | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 2, 2008 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MLN vs VYM Performance
VanEck Long Muni ETF (MLN) is a ETF from VanEck and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MLN returned +5.50% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, MLN is down 0.48% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, MLN compounded at +2.76% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -1.61% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +2.84%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MLN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 42.0% compared with 14.6% for VYM. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -62.4% for MLN and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.09. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLN charges 0.24% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $4 annually, a gap of $20 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLN currently yields 3.66% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MLN and VYM share 0 holdings out of 921 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MLN or VYM?
MLN has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $20 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLN or VYM?
Over the past year MLN returned +5.50% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), MLN annualized +2.84% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLN or VYM?
MLN has been the more volatile fund at 42.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MLN -62.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MLN and VYM?
MLN and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.09, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLN and VYM?
MLN and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 921 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLN or VYM?
MLN yields 3.66% while VYM yields 2.86%, so MLN currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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