PEX vs VYM
ProShares Global Listed Private Equity 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 | PEX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $11M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.93% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 31 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -2.56% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -10.11% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.62% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.42% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 115.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -77.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 26, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PEX vs VYM Performance
ProShares Global Listed Private Equity ETF (PEX) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PEX returned -10.11% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, PEX is down 2.56% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, PEX compounded at +4.62% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -0.42% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +5.34%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PEX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 115.1% 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 -77.9% for PEX 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 0.04. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PEX charges 2.95% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $295 vs $4 annually, a gap of $291 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PEX currently yields 8.93% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
PEX and VYM share 0 holdings out of 588 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, PEX or VYM?
PEX has an expense ratio of 2.95% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $291 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PEX or VYM?
Over the past year PEX returned -10.11% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), PEX annualized +5.34% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PEX or VYM?
PEX has been the more volatile fund at 115.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: PEX -77.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PEX and VYM?
PEX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.04, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PEX and VYM?
PEX and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 588 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PEX or VYM?
PEX yields 8.93% while VYM yields 2.86%, so PEX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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