STXT vs VYM
Strive Total Return Bond 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 | STXT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $119M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.07% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 219 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.29% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.99% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.77% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -5.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Strive Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 10, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
STXT vs VYM Performance
Strive Total Return Bond ETF (STXT) is a ETF from Strive Asset Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year STXT returned +0.99% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, STXT is down 0.29% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, STXT compounded at +3.77% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +3.77%. 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 5.5% for STXT. 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 -5.8% for STXT 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
STXT charges 0.49% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $4 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, STXT currently yields 5.07% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
STXT and VYM share 0 holdings out of 705 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, STXT or VYM?
STXT has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, STXT or VYM?
Over the past year STXT returned +0.99% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), STXT annualized +3.77% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, STXT or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.5% for STXT. Worst drawdown: STXT -5.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both STXT and VYM?
STXT 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 STXT and VYM?
STXT and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 705 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, STXT or VYM?
STXT yields 5.07% while VYM yields 2.86%, so STXT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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