RFIX vs VYM
Simplify Bond Bull 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 | RFIX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $47M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.31% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 12 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.27% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -14.41% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -38.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 9, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
RFIX vs VYM Performance
Simplify Bond Bull ETF (RFIX) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RFIX returned -14.41% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, RFIX is up 1.27% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RFIX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.9% 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 -38.8% for RFIX 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 0.16. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RFIX 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, RFIX currently yields 4.31% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, RFIX or VYM?
RFIX 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, RFIX or VYM?
Over the past year RFIX returned -14.41% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), RFIX annualized -23.05% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RFIX or VYM?
RFIX has been the more volatile fund at 20.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: RFIX -38.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both RFIX and VYM?
RFIX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.16, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, RFIX or VYM?
RFIX yields 4.31% while VYM yields 2.86%, so RFIX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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