PQJL vs VYM
PGIM Nasdaq-100 Buffer 12 ETF - July 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 | PQJL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $23M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.01% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 7 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +6.48% | +15.34% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.94% | +23.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.22% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -12.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | PGIM Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 27, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PQJL vs VYM Performance
PGIM Nasdaq-100 Buffer 12 ETF - July (PQJL) is a ETF from PGIM Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PQJL returned +12.94% while VYM returned +23.24%. Year to date, PQJL is up 6.48% versus a gain of 15.34% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 9.5% for PQJL. 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 -12.3% for PQJL 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 0.57. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PQJL 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, PQJL currently yields 0.01% against 2.24% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PQJL or VYM?
PQJL 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, PQJL or VYM?
Over the past year PQJL returned +12.94% vs +23.24% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), PQJL annualized +13.81% vs +7.04% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PQJL or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 9.5% for PQJL. Worst drawdown: PQJL -12.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PQJL and VYM?
PQJL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.57, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PQJL or VYM?
PQJL yields 0.01% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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