SDP vs VYM
ProShares UltraShort Utilities 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 | SDP | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $4M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.07% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +0.70% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | -3.27% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -19.86% | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -13.99% | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 30.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 2007 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SDP vs VYM Performance
ProShares UltraShort Utilities (SDP) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SDP returned -3.27% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, SDP is up 0.70% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Over three years, SDP compounded at -19.86% per year against +18.34% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -13.99% and +12.04% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs -24.51%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SDP has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.5% 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 -99.8% for SDP 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 -0.47. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SDP charges 0.95% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $4 annually, a gap of $91 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SDP currently yields 4.07% against 2.24% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SDP or VYM?
SDP has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $91 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SDP or VYM?
Over the past year SDP returned -3.27% vs +20.88% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), SDP annualized -24.51% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SDP or VYM?
SDP has been the more volatile fund at 30.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: SDP -99.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SDP and VYM?
SDP and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.47, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SDP or VYM?
SDP yields 4.07% while VYM yields 2.24%, so SDP currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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