STAX vs VYM
Nomura Tax-Free USA Short Term 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 | STAX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $13M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.17% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.02% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.19% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 1.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -1.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Nomura Asset Management Co Ltd | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Tax Preferred | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 28, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
STAX vs VYM Performance
Nomura Tax-Free USA Short Term ETF (STAX) is a ETF from Nomura Asset Management Co Ltd and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year STAX returned +2.19% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, STAX is up 1.02% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 1.7% for STAX. 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 -1.4% for STAX 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
STAX charges 0.29% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $29 vs $4 annually, a gap of $25 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, STAX currently yields 3.17% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
STAX and VYM share 0 holdings out of 571 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, STAX or VYM?
STAX has an expense ratio of 0.29% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $25 per year of difference.
Which performed better, STAX or VYM?
Over the past year STAX returned +2.19% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), STAX annualized +3.32% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, STAX or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 1.7% for STAX. Worst drawdown: STAX -1.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both STAX and VYM?
STAX 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 STAX and VYM?
STAX and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 571 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, STAX or VYM?
STAX yields 3.17% while VYM yields 2.86%, so STAX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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