USRD vs VYM
Themes US R&D Champions 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 | USRD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.37% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 103 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +11.85% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +11.19% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Themes ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 13, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
USRD vs VYM Performance
Themes US R&D Champions ETF (USRD) is a ETF from Themes ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year USRD returned +11.19% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, USRD is up 11.85% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
USRD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.7% 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 -22.7% for USRD 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 0.51. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
USRD charges 0.29% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $29 vs $4 annually, a gap of $25 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, USRD currently yields 0.37% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
USRD and VYM share 7 holdings out of 602 unique holdings combined, representing a 6.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, USRD or VYM?
USRD has an expense ratio of 0.29% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $25 per year of difference.
Which performed better, USRD or VYM?
Over the past year USRD returned +11.19% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), USRD annualized +17.96% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, USRD or VYM?
USRD has been the more volatile fund at 16.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: USRD -22.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both USRD and VYM?
USRD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.51, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between USRD and VYM?
USRD and VYM share 7 common holdings with a 6.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 602 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, USRD or VYM?
USRD yields 0.37% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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