HDGE vs VYM
HDGE vs VYM
AdvisorShares Ranger Equity Bear 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 | HDGE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.62% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $59M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.39% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 50 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -8.21% | +13.82% | |
| 1Y Return | -9.83% | +24.08% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -6.79% | +17.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -7.10% | +12.13% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -94.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Advisor Shares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 26, 2011 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HDGE vs VYM Performance
AdvisorShares Ranger Equity Bear ETF (HDGE) is a ETF from Advisor Shares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HDGE returned -9.83% while VYM returned +24.08%. Year to date, HDGE is down 8.21% versus a gain of 13.82% for VYM.
Over three years, HDGE compounded at -6.79% per year against +17.72% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -7.10% and +12.13% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +6.98% annualized vs -15.91%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HDGE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.8% 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 -94.4% for HDGE 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 -0.75. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HDGE charges 3.62% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $362 vs $4 annually, a gap of $358 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HDGE currently yields 3.39% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
HDGE and VYM share 12 holdings out of 608 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in HDGE | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| WFC | -1.36% | 1.12% | 2.48% |
| SYF | -1.15% | 0.11% | 1.26% |
| OMF | -1.42% | 0.03% | 1.45% |
| ARES | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| BBWI | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| PAYX | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| DDS | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| OZK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| SIG:LN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| BAH | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings HDGE shares with VYM Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HDGE or VYM?
HDGE has an expense ratio of 3.62% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $358 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HDGE or VYM?
Over the past year HDGE returned -9.83% vs +24.08% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), HDGE annualized -15.91% vs +6.98% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HDGE or VYM?
HDGE has been the more volatile fund at 20.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: HDGE -94.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HDGE and VYM?
HDGE and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HDGE and VYM?
HDGE and VYM share 12 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 608 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HDGE or VYM?
HDGE yields 3.39% while VYM yields 2.86%, so HDGE currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.