UTSL vs VYM
Direxion Daily Utilities Bull 3X 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 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | UTSL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.97% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $45M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.68% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 40 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | -13.54% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | -7.12% | +21.08% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.12% | +18.16% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.48% | +12.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 48.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -79.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | May 3, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
UTSL vs VYM Performance
Direxion Daily Utilities Bull 3X ETF (UTSL) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year UTSL returned -7.12% while VYM returned +21.08%. Year to date, UTSL is down 13.54% versus a gain of 14.57% for VYM.
Over three years, UTSL compounded at +21.12% per year against +18.16% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +2.48% and +12.00% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +6.99% annualized vs +5.12%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
UTSL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 48.0% 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 -79.5% for UTSL 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 0.57. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
UTSL charges 0.97% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $97 vs $4 annually, a gap of $93 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, UTSL currently yields 1.68% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
UTSL and VYM share 28 holdings out of 609 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, UTSL or VYM?
UTSL has an expense ratio of 0.97% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $93 per year of difference.
Which performed better, UTSL or VYM?
Over the past year UTSL returned -7.12% vs +21.08% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), UTSL annualized +5.12% vs +6.99% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, UTSL or VYM?
UTSL has been the more volatile fund at 48.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: UTSL -79.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both UTSL and VYM?
UTSL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.57, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between UTSL and VYM?
UTSL and VYM share 28 common holdings with a 5.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 609 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, UTSL or VYM?
UTSL yields 1.68% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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