USSG vs VYM
Xtrackers MSCI USA Selection Equity 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 | USSG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.09% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $556M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.99% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 265 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +14.74% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.98% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.23% | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.48% | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 6, 2019 | Nov 10, 2006 |
USSG vs VYM Performance
Xtrackers MSCI USA Selection Equity ETF (USSG) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year USSG returned +23.98% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, USSG is up 14.74% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Over three years, USSG compounded at +22.23% per year against +18.60% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +13.48% and +12.30% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, USSG has the edge at +16.68% annualized vs +7.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
USSG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.9% 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 -34.4% for USSG 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
USSG charges 0.09% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $9 vs $4 annually, a gap of $5 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, USSG currently yields 0.99% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
USSG and VYM share 113 holdings out of 709 unique holdings combined, representing a 27.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, USSG or VYM?
USSG has an expense ratio of 0.09% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $5 per year of difference.
Which performed better, USSG or VYM?
Over the past year USSG returned +23.98% vs +24.43% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), USSG annualized +16.68% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, USSG or VYM?
USSG has been the more volatile fund at 16.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: USSG -34.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both USSG and VYM?
USSG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between USSG and VYM?
USSG and VYM share 113 common holdings with a 27.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 709 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, USSG or VYM?
USSG yields 0.99% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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