RCGE vs VYM
RockCreek Global Equality 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 | RCGE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $100M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.73% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 204 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +10.98% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +17.36% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -12.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | RockCreek | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 26, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
RCGE vs VYM Performance
RockCreek Global Equality ETF (RCGE) is a ETF from RockCreek and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RCGE returned +17.36% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, RCGE is up 10.98% 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 9.4% for RCGE. 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 -12.4% for RCGE 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 0.65. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RCGE 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, RCGE currently yields 1.73% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
RCGE and VYM share 40 holdings out of 719 unique holdings combined, representing a 9.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, RCGE or VYM?
RCGE 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, RCGE or VYM?
Over the past year RCGE returned +17.36% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), RCGE annualized +20.17% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RCGE or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 9.4% for RCGE. Worst drawdown: RCGE -12.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both RCGE and VYM?
RCGE and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.65, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RCGE and VYM?
RCGE and VYM share 40 common holdings with a 9.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 719 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RCGE or VYM?
RCGE yields 1.73% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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