QALT vs VYM
SEI DBi Multi-Strategy Alternative 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 | QALT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.80% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $192M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.44% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 17 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +7.57% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.32% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -4.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | SEI EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 25, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
QALT vs VYM Performance
SEI DBi Multi-Strategy Alternative ETF (QALT) is a ETF from SEI EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QALT returned +13.32% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, QALT is up 7.57% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 7.2% for QALT. 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 -4.8% for QALT 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 0.53. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QALT charges 0.80% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $80 vs $4 annually, a gap of $76 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QALT currently yields 5.44% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, QALT or VYM?
QALT has an expense ratio of 0.80% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $76 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QALT or VYM?
Over the past year QALT returned +13.32% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QALT or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 7.2% for QALT. Worst drawdown: QALT -4.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both QALT and VYM?
QALT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.53, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, QALT or VYM?
QALT yields 5.44% while VYM yields 2.86%, so QALT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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