REK vs VYM
ProShares Short Real Estate 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 | REK | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $12M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.22% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 8 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -9.46% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -6.21% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -4.88% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.11% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -84.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 16, 2010 | Nov 10, 2006 |
REK vs VYM Performance
ProShares Short Real Estate (REK) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year REK returned -6.21% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, REK is down 9.46% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, REK compounded at -4.88% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -0.11% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -9.96%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
REK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.0% 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 -84.8% for REK 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 -0.72. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
REK 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, REK currently yields 3.22% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
REK and VYM share 0 holdings out of 559 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, REK or VYM?
REK 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, REK or VYM?
Over the past year REK returned -6.21% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), REK annualized -9.96% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, REK or VYM?
REK has been the more volatile fund at 16.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: REK -84.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both REK and VYM?
REK and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between REK and VYM?
REK and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 559 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, REK or VYM?
REK yields 3.22% while VYM yields 2.86%, so REK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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