PSQ vs VYM
ProShares Short QQQ 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 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PSQ | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $641M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.26% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 17 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | -12.56% | +14.87% | |
| 1Y Return | -18.27% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -16.87% | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -11.76% | +11.98% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.8% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -98.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 19, 2006 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PSQ vs VYM Performance
ProShares Short QQQ (PSQ) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PSQ returned -18.27% while VYM returned +21.39%. Year to date, PSQ is down 12.56% versus a gain of 14.87% for VYM.
Over three years, PSQ compounded at -16.87% per year against +18.69% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -11.76% and +11.98% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.00% annualized vs -17.14%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PSQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.8% compared with 14.5% 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 -98.4% for PSQ 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 -0.70. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PSQ charges 0.95% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $4 annually, a gap of $91 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PSQ currently yields 4.26% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
PSQ 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, PSQ or VYM?
PSQ has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $91 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PSQ or VYM?
Over the past year PSQ returned -18.27% vs +21.39% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), PSQ annualized -17.14% vs +7.00% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PSQ or VYM?
PSQ has been the more volatile fund at 17.8% annualized versus 14.5% for VYM. Worst drawdown: PSQ -98.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PSQ and VYM?
PSQ and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PSQ and VYM?
PSQ and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 604 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PSQ or VYM?
PSQ yields 4.26% while VYM yields 2.24%, so PSQ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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