SZK vs VYM
ProShares UltraShort Consumer Staples 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 | SZK | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $4M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.79% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -17.96% | +14.66% | |
| 1Y Return | -5.80% | +22.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -8.93% | +18.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -4.53% | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 27.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 2007 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SZK vs VYM Performance
ProShares UltraShort Consumer Staples (SZK) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SZK returned -5.80% while VYM returned +22.16%. Year to date, SZK is down 17.96% versus a gain of 14.66% for VYM.
Over three years, SZK compounded at -8.93% per year against +18.72% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -4.53% and +12.18% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs -20.69%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SZK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 27.5% compared with 14.6% for VYM. 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 -99.5% for SZK 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 -0.79. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SZK charges 0.95% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $4 annually, a gap of $91 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SZK currently yields 2.79% against 2.24% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SZK or VYM?
SZK has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $91 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SZK or VYM?
Over the past year SZK returned -5.80% vs +22.16% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), SZK annualized -20.69% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SZK or VYM?
SZK has been the more volatile fund at 27.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: SZK -99.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SZK and VYM?
SZK and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SZK or VYM?
SZK yields 2.79% while VYM yields 2.24%, so SZK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.