UJB vs VYM
UJB vs VYM
ProShares Ultra High Yield 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 | UJB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $10M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.19% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.65% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.79% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.76% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.80% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -40.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 13, 2011 | Nov 10, 2006 |
UJB vs VYM Performance
ProShares Ultra High Yield ETF (UJB) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year UJB returned +5.79% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, UJB is up 1.65% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, UJB compounded at +10.76% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +2.80% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +5.37%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
UJB has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% 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 -40.5% for UJB 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
UJB 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, UJB currently yields 3.19% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
UJB and VYM share 0 holdings out of 559 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, UJB or VYM?
UJB 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, UJB or VYM?
Over the past year UJB returned +5.79% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), UJB annualized +5.37% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, UJB or VYM?
UJB has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: UJB -40.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both UJB and VYM?
UJB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between UJB and VYM?
UJB and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 559 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, UJB or VYM?
UJB yields 3.19% while VYM yields 2.86%, so UJB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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