MSMR vs VYM
McElhenny Sheffield Managed Risk 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 | MSMR | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.06% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $183M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.83% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.85% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.50% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.66% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Aptus Capital Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 16, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MSMR vs VYM Performance
McElhenny Sheffield Managed Risk ETF (MSMR) is a ETF from Aptus Capital Advisors and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MSMR returned +7.50% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, MSMR is up 1.85% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, MSMR compounded at +13.66% per year against +18.54% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, MSMR has the edge at +8.51% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 10.4% for MSMR. 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 -14.9% for MSMR 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 0.42. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MSMR charges 1.06% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $106 vs $4 annually, a gap of $102 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MSMR currently yields 1.83% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MSMR and VYM share 0 holdings out of 563 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, MSMR or VYM?
MSMR has an expense ratio of 1.06% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $102 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MSMR or VYM?
Over the past year MSMR returned +7.50% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), MSMR annualized +8.51% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MSMR or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 10.4% for MSMR. Worst drawdown: MSMR -14.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MSMR and VYM?
MSMR and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.42, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MSMR and VYM?
MSMR and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 563 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MSMR or VYM?
MSMR yields 1.83% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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