SIFI vs VYM
Harbor Ares Systematic Multi-Sector Income 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 | SIFI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $34M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.10% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 187 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.40% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.67% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.31% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.34% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Harbor Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 14, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SIFI vs VYM Performance
Harbor Ares Systematic Multi-Sector Income ETF (SIFI) is a ETF from Harbor Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SIFI returned +4.67% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, SIFI is up 1.40% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, SIFI compounded at +7.31% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +2.34% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +2.34%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 5.6% for SIFI. 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 -14.7% for SIFI 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SIFI 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, SIFI currently yields 8.10% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
SIFI and VYM share 0 holdings out of 709 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SIFI or VYM?
SIFI 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, SIFI or VYM?
Over the past year SIFI returned +4.67% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SIFI annualized +2.34% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SIFI or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.6% for SIFI. Worst drawdown: SIFI -14.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SIFI and VYM?
SIFI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SIFI and VYM?
SIFI and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 709 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SIFI or VYM?
SIFI yields 8.10% while VYM yields 2.86%, so SIFI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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