RSST vs VYM
Return Stacked US Stocks & Managed Futures ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. RSST delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | RSST | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.99% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $482M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.25% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 30 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +18.59% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +40.99% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.52% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Return Stacked ETF | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 6, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
RSST vs VYM Performance
Return Stacked US Stocks & Managed Futures ETF (RSST) is a ETF from Return Stacked ETF and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RSST returned +40.99% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, RSST is up 18.59% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, RSST compounded at +19.52% per year against +18.54% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, RSST has the edge at +19.52% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RSST has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.6% 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 -30.8% for RSST 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 0.66. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RSST charges 0.99% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $99 vs $4 annually, a gap of $95 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RSST currently yields 0.25% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
RSST and VYM share 0 holdings out of 560 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, RSST or VYM?
RSST has an expense ratio of 0.99% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $95 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RSST or VYM?
Over the past year RSST returned +40.99% vs +25.03% for VYM, so RSST leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), RSST annualized +19.52% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RSST or VYM?
RSST has been the more volatile fund at 17.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: RSST -30.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both RSST and VYM?
RSST and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.66, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RSST and VYM?
RSST and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 560 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RSST or VYM?
RSST yields 0.25% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.