USMC vs VYM
Principal U.S. Mega-Cap 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 | USMC | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.12% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $3.6B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.75% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 28 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +12.56% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.86% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.07% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +14.58% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Principal Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 11, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
USMC vs VYM Performance
Principal U.S. Mega-Cap ETF (USMC) is a ETF from Principal Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year USMC returned +21.86% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, USMC is up 12.56% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, USMC compounded at +21.07% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +14.58% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, USMC has the edge at +14.45% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
USMC 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 -30.0% for USMC 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
USMC charges 0.12% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $12 vs $4 annually, a gap of $8 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, USMC currently yields 0.75% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
USMC and VYM share 11 holdings out of 574 unique holdings combined, representing a 24.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, USMC or VYM?
USMC has an expense ratio of 0.12% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $8 per year of difference.
Which performed better, USMC or VYM?
Over the past year USMC returned +21.86% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), USMC annualized +14.45% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, USMC or VYM?
USMC has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: USMC -30.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both USMC and VYM?
USMC and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between USMC and VYM?
USMC and VYM share 11 common holdings with a 24.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 574 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, USMC or VYM?
USMC yields 0.75% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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