MSSS vs VYM
Monarch Select Subsector Index 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 | MSSS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.43% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $145M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.28% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 12 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +21.17% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.69% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Monarch Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 12, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MSSS vs VYM Performance
Monarch Select Subsector Index ETF (MSSS) is a ETF from Monarch Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MSSS returned +24.69% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, MSSS is up 21.17% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MSSS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.9% 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 -19.1% for MSSS 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 0.88. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MSSS charges 1.43% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $143 vs $4 annually, a gap of $139 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MSSS currently yields 0.28% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MSSS and VYM share 0 holdings out of 568 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, MSSS or VYM?
MSSS has an expense ratio of 1.43% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $139 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MSSS or VYM?
Over the past year MSSS returned +24.69% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MSSS annualized +17.03% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MSSS or VYM?
MSSS has been the more volatile fund at 15.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MSSS -19.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MSSS and VYM?
MSSS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.88, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MSSS and VYM?
MSSS and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 568 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MSSS or VYM?
MSSS yields 0.28% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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