OBTC vs VYM

Quick Verdict

VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.

Lower Fees: VYMHigher Returns: VYMMore Diversified: VYM

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricOBTCVYMWinner
Expense Ratio0.49%0.04%
AUM$61M$79.0B
Dividend Yield0.00%2.86%
Holdings2568
YTD Return-27.58%+15.80%
1Y Return-35.85%+26.12%
3Y Return (annualized)+42.05%+18.25%
5Y Return (annualized)+4.57%+12.51%
Volatility (annualized)64.4%14.6%
Max Drawdown-94.5%-58.8%
Fund FamilyOsprey FundsVanguard (US)
CategoryAlternativeEquity
InceptionDec 19, 2025Nov 10, 2006

OBTC vs VYM Performance

Osprey Bitcoin Trust (OBTC) is a ETF from Osprey Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year OBTC returned -35.85% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, OBTC is down 27.58% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.

Over three years, OBTC compounded at +42.05% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +4.57% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -14.73%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

OBTC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 64.4% 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 -94.5% for OBTC 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 0.22. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.

Fees and Cost Over Time

OBTC charges 0.49% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $4 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, OBTC currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, OBTC or VYM?

OBTC has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.

Which performed better, OBTC or VYM?

Over the past year OBTC returned -35.85% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), OBTC annualized -14.73% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which is riskier, OBTC or VYM?

OBTC has been the more volatile fund at 64.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: OBTC -94.5% vs VYM -58.8%.

Should I hold both OBTC and VYM?

OBTC and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.22, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.

Which pays a higher dividend, OBTC or VYM?

OBTC yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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