RKLX vs VYM
Defiance Daily Target 2X Long RKLB 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | RKLX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.29% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $270M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 36.26% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 11 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -57.61% | +14.66% | |
| 1Y Return | -14.43% | +22.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 209.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -88.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Defiance ETFs, LLC | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 12, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
RKLX vs VYM Performance
Defiance Daily Target 2X Long RKLB ETF (RKLX) is a ETF from Defiance ETFs, LLC and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RKLX returned -14.43% while VYM returned +22.16%. Year to date, RKLX is down 57.61% versus a gain of 14.66% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RKLX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 209.8% 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 -88.1% for RKLX 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 -0.03. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RKLX charges 1.29% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $129 vs $4 annually, a gap of $125 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RKLX currently yields 36.26% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
RKLX 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, RKLX or VYM?
RKLX has an expense ratio of 1.29% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $125 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RKLX or VYM?
Over the past year RKLX returned -14.43% vs +22.16% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), RKLX annualized +125.23% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RKLX or VYM?
RKLX has been the more volatile fund at 209.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: RKLX -88.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both RKLX and VYM?
RKLX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.03, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RKLX and VYM?
RKLX and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 604 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RKLX or VYM?
RKLX yields 36.26% while VYM yields 2.24%, so RKLX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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