SVOL vs VYM
Simplify Volatility Premium 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 | SVOL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.66% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $523M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 22.03% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 32 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +4.91% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.11% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.86% | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.96% | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 12, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SVOL vs VYM Performance
Simplify Volatility Premium ETF (SVOL) 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 SVOL returned +14.11% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, SVOL is up 4.91% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Over three years, SVOL compounded at +6.86% per year against +18.60% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +6.96% and +12.30% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, SVOL has the edge at +8.44% annualized vs +7.11%. 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 13.4% for SVOL. 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 -33.5% for SVOL 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 0.65. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SVOL charges 0.66% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $66 vs $4 annually, a gap of $62 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SVOL currently yields 22.03% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
SVOL and VYM share 0 holdings out of 567 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, SVOL or VYM?
SVOL has an expense ratio of 0.66% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $62 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SVOL or VYM?
Over the past year SVOL returned +14.11% vs +24.43% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SVOL annualized +8.44% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SVOL or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.4% for SVOL. Worst drawdown: SVOL -33.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SVOL and VYM?
SVOL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.65, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SVOL and VYM?
SVOL and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 567 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SVOL or VYM?
SVOL yields 22.03% while VYM yields 2.86%, so SVOL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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