SARK vs VYM
Tradr 1X Short Innovation Daily 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 | SARK | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.00% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $44M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.16% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -10.19% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | -17.27% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -31.09% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 47.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -81.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Tradr ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 5, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SARK vs VYM Performance
Tradr 1X Short Innovation Daily ETF (SARK) is a ETF from Tradr ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SARK returned -17.27% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, SARK is down 10.19% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, SARK compounded at -31.09% per year against +18.43% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs -13.97%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SARK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 47.1% 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 -81.1% for SARK 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 -0.48. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SARK charges 1.00% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $100 vs $4 annually, a gap of $96 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SARK currently yields 3.16% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SARK or VYM?
SARK has an expense ratio of 1.00% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $96 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SARK or VYM?
Over the past year SARK returned -17.27% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SARK annualized -13.97% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SARK or VYM?
SARK has been the more volatile fund at 47.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: SARK -81.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SARK and VYM?
SARK and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.48, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SARK or VYM?
SARK yields 3.16% while VYM yields 2.86%, so SARK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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