VYM vs ZVOL
Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF vs Volatility Premium Plus ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VYM | ZVOL | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.04% | 1.42% | |
| AUM | $81.6B | $16M | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.24% | 74.79% | |
| Holdings | 616 | 5 | |
| YTD Return | +16.42% | -15.49% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.22% | -7.34% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.03% | -0.67% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.21% | - | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | 55.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.8% | -64.5% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Volatility Shares, LLC | |
| Category | Equity | Alternative | |
| Inception | Nov 10, 2006 | Nov 22, 2024 |
VYM vs ZVOL Performance
Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Volatility Premium Plus ETF (ZVOL) is a ETF from Volatility Shares, LLC. Over the past year VYM returned +24.22% while ZVOL returned -7.34%. Year to date, VYM is up 16.42% versus a loss of 15.49% for ZVOL.
Over three years, VYM compounded at +19.03% per year against -0.67% for ZVOL. Across the full 3-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +7.03%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ZVOL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 55.3% 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 -58.8% for VYM and -64.5% for ZVOL. 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 0.04. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VYM charges 0.04% per year while ZVOL charges 1.42%. On a $10,000 position that is $4 vs $142 annually, a gap of $138 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VYM currently yields 2.24% against 74.79% for ZVOL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VYM or ZVOL?
VYM has an expense ratio of 0.04% while ZVOL charges 1.42%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $138 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VYM or ZVOL?
Over the past year VYM returned +24.22% vs -7.34% for ZVOL, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), VYM annualized +7.10% vs +7.03% for ZVOL. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VYM or ZVOL?
ZVOL has been the more volatile fund at 55.3% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: VYM -58.8% vs ZVOL -64.5%.
Should I hold both VYM and ZVOL?
VYM and ZVOL have a monthly-return correlation of 0.04, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, VYM or ZVOL?
VYM yields 2.24% while ZVOL yields 74.79%, so ZVOL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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