SAMT vs VYM
Strategas Macro Thematic Opportunities ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. SAMT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SAMT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.66% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $883M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.63% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 42 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +9.91% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.87% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.66% | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Strategas Asset Management, LLC | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 25, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SAMT vs VYM Performance
Strategas Macro Thematic Opportunities ETF (SAMT) is a ETF from Strategas Asset Management, LLC and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SAMT returned +21.87% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, SAMT is up 9.91% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Over three years, SAMT compounded at +23.66% per year against +18.34% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, SAMT has the edge at +13.24% annualized vs +7.01%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SAMT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.5% 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 -20.6% for SAMT 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 usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SAMT charges 0.66% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $66 vs $4 annually, a gap of $62 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SAMT currently yields 0.63% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
SAMT and VYM share 19 holdings out of 624 unique holdings combined, representing a 15.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SAMT or VYM?
SAMT has an expense ratio of 0.66% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $62 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SAMT or VYM?
Over the past year SAMT returned +21.87% vs +20.88% for VYM, so SAMT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SAMT annualized +13.24% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SAMT or VYM?
SAMT has been the more volatile fund at 16.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: SAMT -20.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SAMT and VYM?
SAMT 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 SAMT and VYM?
SAMT and VYM share 19 common holdings with a 15.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 624 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SAMT or VYM?
SAMT yields 0.63% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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