USG vs VYM
USCF Gold Strategy Plus Income Fund 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 | USG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $9M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 29.92% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 4 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.13% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.53% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.64% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | USCF Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 8, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
USG vs VYM Performance
USCF Gold Strategy Plus Income Fund (USG) is a ETF from USCF Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year USG returned +23.53% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, USG is down 0.13% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, USG compounded at +26.64% per year against +18.29% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, USG has the edge at +17.40% annualized vs +7.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
USG 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 -24.9% for USG 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 0.26. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
USG charges 0.45% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $4 annually, a gap of $41 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, USG currently yields 29.92% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, USG or VYM?
USG has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $41 per year of difference.
Which performed better, USG or VYM?
Over the past year USG returned +23.53% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), USG annualized +17.40% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, USG or VYM?
USG has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: USG -24.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both USG and VYM?
USG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.26, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, USG or VYM?
USG yields 29.92% while VYM yields 2.86%, so USG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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