SPD vs VYM
SPD vs VYM
Simplify US Equity PLUS Downside Convexity 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 | SPD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.53% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $104M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.97% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 14 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +10.58% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +15.55% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.45% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.15% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 3, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SPD vs VYM Performance
Simplify US Equity PLUS Downside Convexity ETF (SPD) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SPD returned +15.55% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, SPD is up 10.58% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, SPD compounded at +17.45% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.15% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, SPD has the edge at +11.13% annualized vs +7.07%. 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 14.2% for SPD. 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 -27.4% for SPD 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SPD charges 0.53% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $53 vs $4 annually, a gap of $49 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SPD currently yields 0.97% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
SPD and VYM share 0 holdings out of 559 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, SPD or VYM?
SPD has an expense ratio of 0.53% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $49 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SPD or VYM?
Over the past year SPD returned +15.55% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), SPD annualized +11.13% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SPD or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 14.2% for SPD. Worst drawdown: SPD -27.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SPD and VYM?
SPD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SPD and VYM?
SPD and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 559 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SPD or VYM?
SPD yields 0.97% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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