NIXT vs VYM
Research Affiliates Deletions ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. NIXT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | NIXT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.19% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $41M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.96% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 156 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +29.38% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +44.41% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | RAFI Indices | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 9, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
NIXT vs VYM Performance
Research Affiliates Deletions ETF (NIXT) is a ETF from RAFI Indices and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NIXT returned +44.41% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, NIXT is up 29.38% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
NIXT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.1% 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 -27.5% for NIXT 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 0.87. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NIXT charges 0.19% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $19 vs $4 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NIXT currently yields 0.96% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
NIXT and VYM share 52 holdings out of 659 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NIXT or VYM?
NIXT has an expense ratio of 0.19% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NIXT or VYM?
Over the past year NIXT returned +44.41% vs +25.99% for VYM, so NIXT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), NIXT annualized +21.50% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NIXT or VYM?
NIXT has been the more volatile fund at 16.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: NIXT -27.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both NIXT and VYM?
NIXT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.87, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NIXT and VYM?
NIXT and VYM share 52 common holdings with a 1.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 659 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NIXT or VYM?
NIXT yields 0.96% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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