PFIX vs VYM
Simplify Interest Rate Hedge 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 | PFIX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $178M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.77% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 30 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +3.94% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | -1.51% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.53% | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +23.04% | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 36.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 10, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PFIX vs VYM Performance
Simplify Interest Rate Hedge ETF (PFIX) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PFIX returned -1.51% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, PFIX is up 3.94% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Over three years, PFIX compounded at +12.53% per year against +18.34% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +23.04% and +12.04% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, PFIX has the edge at +16.18% annualized vs +7.01%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PFIX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 36.3% 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 -36.2% for PFIX 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 -0.47. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PFIX charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PFIX currently yields 7.77% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
PFIX and VYM share 0 holdings out of 604 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, PFIX or VYM?
PFIX has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PFIX or VYM?
Over the past year PFIX returned -1.51% vs +20.88% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), PFIX annualized +16.18% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PFIX or VYM?
PFIX has been the more volatile fund at 36.3% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: PFIX -36.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PFIX and VYM?
PFIX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.47, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PFIX and VYM?
PFIX and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 604 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PFIX or VYM?
PFIX yields 7.77% while VYM yields 2.24%, so PFIX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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