SPE vs VYM
Special Opportunities Fund Inc 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 | SPE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 4.89% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $171M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.31% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 158 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -3.40% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -4.62% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.07% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.14% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Special Opportunities Fund | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 8, 1993 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SPE vs VYM Performance
Special Opportunities Fund Inc (SPE) is a ETF from Special Opportunities Fund and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SPE returned -4.62% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, SPE is down 3.40% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, SPE compounded at +15.07% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.14% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +2.05%. 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 13.8% for SPE. 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 -58.5% for SPE 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SPE charges 4.89% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $489 vs $4 annually, a gap of $485 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SPE currently yields 8.31% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SPE or VYM?
SPE has an expense ratio of 4.89% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $485 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SPE or VYM?
Over the past year SPE returned -4.62% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), SPE annualized +2.05% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SPE or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.8% for SPE. Worst drawdown: SPE -58.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SPE and VYM?
SPE and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SPE and VYM?
SPE and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 660 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SPE or VYM?
SPE yields 8.31% while VYM yields 2.86%, so SPE currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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