SMDD vs VYM
UltraPro Short MidCap400 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 | SMDD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.11% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -37.91% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | -50.80% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -37.08% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -30.62% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 52.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -100.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 9, 2010 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SMDD vs VYM Performance
UltraPro Short MidCap400 (SMDD) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SMDD returned -50.80% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, SMDD is down 37.91% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, SMDD compounded at -37.08% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -30.62% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 17-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs -40.35%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SMDD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 52.4% 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 -100.0% for SMDD 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 -0.80. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SMDD 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, SMDD currently yields 6.11% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SMDD or VYM?
SMDD 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, SMDD or VYM?
Over the past year SMDD returned -50.80% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (17 years), SMDD annualized -40.35% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SMDD or VYM?
SMDD has been the more volatile fund at 52.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: SMDD -100.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SMDD and VYM?
SMDD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SMDD or VYM?
SMDD yields 6.11% while VYM yields 2.86%, so SMDD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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