CIF vs VYM
CIF vs VYM
MFS Intermediate High Income Fund 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 | CIF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.05% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $31M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 9.78% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 360 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -1.12% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.67% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.23% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -3.54% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -87.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | MFS Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 21, 1988 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CIF vs VYM Performance
MFS Intermediate High Income Fund (CIF) is a ETF from MFS Investment Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CIF returned +3.67% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, CIF is down 1.12% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, CIF compounded at +10.23% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -3.54% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -3.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CIF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.3% 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 -87.0% for CIF 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 0.48. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CIF charges 2.05% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $205 vs $4 annually, a gap of $201 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CIF currently yields 9.78% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
CIF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 843 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CIF or VYM?
CIF has an expense ratio of 2.05% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $201 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CIF or VYM?
Over the past year CIF returned +3.67% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), CIF annualized -3.07% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CIF or VYM?
CIF has been the more volatile fund at 19.3% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: CIF -87.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CIF and VYM?
CIF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.48, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CIF and VYM?
CIF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 843 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CIF or VYM?
CIF yields 9.78% while VYM yields 2.86%, so CIF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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