SAEF vs VYM
SAEF vs VYM
Schwab Ariel Opportunities 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 | SAEF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $19M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.33% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 59 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -12.00% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -8.20% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.62% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Charles Schwab Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 15, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SAEF vs VYM Performance
Schwab Ariel Opportunities ETF (SAEF) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SAEF returned -8.20% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, SAEF is down 12.00% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, SAEF compounded at +2.62% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -0.25%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SAEF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.6% 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 -28.1% for SAEF 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 0.74. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SAEF charges 0.59% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $4 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SAEF currently yields 0.33% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
SAEF and VYM share 19 holdings out of 597 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in SAEF | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| NTRS | 2.75% | 0.12% | 2.63% |
| FAF | 2.70% | 0.03% | 2.67% |
| NVT:LN | 2.35% | 0.08% | 2.27% |
| CG | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| LAZ | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| GNTX | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| PGR | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ADT | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| AFL | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| KMT | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings SAEF shares with VYM Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SAEF or VYM?
SAEF has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SAEF or VYM?
Over the past year SAEF returned -8.20% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SAEF annualized -0.25% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SAEF or VYM?
SAEF has been the more volatile fund at 24.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: SAEF -28.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SAEF and VYM?
SAEF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.74, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SAEF and VYM?
SAEF and VYM share 19 common holdings with a 1.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 597 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SAEF or VYM?
SAEF yields 0.33% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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