NSCS vs VYM
Nuveen Small Cap Select 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | NSCS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.86% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $7M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.31% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 82 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -6.06% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.63% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.00% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 4, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
NSCS vs VYM Performance
Nuveen Small Cap Select ETF (NSCS) is a ETF from Nuveen and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NSCS returned +4.63% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, NSCS is down 6.06% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, NSCS compounded at +10.00% per year against +19.03% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +1.72%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
NSCS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.8% 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 -30.6% for NSCS 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NSCS charges 0.86% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $86 vs $4 annually, a gap of $82 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NSCS currently yields 0.31% against 2.24% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NSCS or VYM?
NSCS has an expense ratio of 0.86% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $82 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NSCS or VYM?
Over the past year NSCS returned +4.63% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), NSCS annualized +1.72% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NSCS or VYM?
NSCS has been the more volatile fund at 20.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: NSCS -30.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both NSCS and VYM?
NSCS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, NSCS or VYM?
NSCS yields 0.31% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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