PLTM vs VYM
GraniteShares Platinum Trust vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. PLTM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PLTM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $170M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -18.60% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.02% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.90% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.64% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 40.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -94.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | GraniteShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 22, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PLTM vs VYM Performance
GraniteShares Platinum Trust (PLTM) is a ETF from GraniteShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PLTM returned +30.02% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, PLTM is down 18.60% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, PLTM compounded at +23.90% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +11.64% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -18.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PLTM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 40.4% 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 -94.2% for PLTM 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 0.32. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PLTM 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, PLTM currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PLTM or VYM?
PLTM 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, PLTM or VYM?
Over the past year PLTM returned +30.02% vs +26.12% for VYM, so PLTM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), PLTM annualized -18.90% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PLTM or VYM?
PLTM has been the more volatile fund at 40.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: PLTM -94.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PLTM and VYM?
PLTM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.32, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PLTM or VYM?
PLTM yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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