SHLD vs VYM
Global X Defense Tech 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 | SHLD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $7.1B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.71% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 55 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +5.49% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.93% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +43.73% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -25.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 11, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SHLD vs VYM Performance
Global X Defense Tech ETF (SHLD) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SHLD returned +14.93% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, SHLD is up 5.49% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, SHLD compounded at +43.73% per year against +18.29% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, SHLD has the edge at +43.73% annualized vs +7.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SHLD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.4% 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 -25.4% for SHLD 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 0.24. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SHLD charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SHLD currently yields 0.71% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
SHLD and VYM share 4 holdings out of 596 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SHLD or VYM?
SHLD has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SHLD or VYM?
Over the past year SHLD returned +14.93% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), SHLD annualized +43.73% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SHLD or VYM?
SHLD has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: SHLD -25.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SHLD and VYM?
SHLD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.24, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SHLD and VYM?
SHLD and VYM share 4 common holdings with a 1.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 596 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SHLD or VYM?
SHLD yields 0.71% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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