ULE vs VYM
ULE vs VYM
ProShares Ultra Euro 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 | ULE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $4M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 3 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -3.29% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -2.91% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.71% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -2.47% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -72.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 24, 2008 | Nov 10, 2006 |
ULE vs VYM Performance
ProShares Ultra Euro (ULE) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ULE returned -2.91% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, ULE is down 3.29% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, ULE compounded at +2.71% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -2.47% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 18-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -3.85%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ULE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.1% 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 -72.7% for ULE 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 0.39. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ULE 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, ULE currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ULE or VYM?
ULE 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, ULE or VYM?
Over the past year ULE returned -2.91% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (18 years), ULE annualized -3.85% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ULE or VYM?
ULE has been the more volatile fund at 18.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: ULE -72.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both ULE and VYM?
ULE and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.39, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, ULE or VYM?
ULE yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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