SPFF vs VYM
Global X SuperIncome Preferred 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SPFF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.48% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $145M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.62% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 52 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +4.70% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +10.07% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.99% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.82% | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -50.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 16, 2012 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SPFF vs VYM Performance
Global X SuperIncome Preferred ETF (SPFF) 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 SPFF returned +10.07% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, SPFF is up 4.70% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, SPFF compounded at +9.99% per year against +19.07% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +1.82% and +12.50% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% annualized vs -0.79%. 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 9.3% for SPFF. 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 -50.1% for SPFF 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 0.66. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SPFF charges 0.48% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $48 vs $4 annually, a gap of $44 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SPFF currently yields 6.62% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SPFF or VYM?
SPFF has an expense ratio of 0.48% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $44 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SPFF or VYM?
Over the past year SPFF returned +10.07% vs +23.48% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), SPFF annualized -0.79% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SPFF or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 9.3% for SPFF. Worst drawdown: SPFF -50.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SPFF and VYM?
SPFF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.66, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SPFF and VYM?
SPFF and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 610 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SPFF or VYM?
SPFF yields 6.62% while VYM yields 2.24%, so SPFF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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