USAI vs VYM
Pacer American Energy Infrastructure 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 | USAI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $130M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.23% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 37 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +24.45% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.02% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +24.47% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +20.56% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 28.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -69.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Pacer ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 12, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
USAI vs VYM Performance
Pacer American Energy Infrastructure ETF (USAI) is a ETF from Pacer ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year USAI returned +25.02% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, USAI is up 24.45% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, USAI compounded at +24.47% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +20.56% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, USAI has the edge at +11.07% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
USAI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 28.6% 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 -69.3% for USAI 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
USAI charges 0.75% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $4 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, USAI currently yields 4.23% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
USAI and VYM share 10 holdings out of 583 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, USAI or VYM?
USAI has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, USAI or VYM?
Over the past year USAI returned +25.02% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), USAI annualized +11.07% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, USAI or VYM?
USAI has been the more volatile fund at 28.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: USAI -69.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both USAI and VYM?
USAI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between USAI and VYM?
USAI and VYM share 10 common holdings with a 1.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 583 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, USAI or VYM?
USAI yields 4.23% while VYM yields 2.86%, so USAI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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