MFSB vs VYM
MFSB vs VYM
MFS Active Core Plus Bond 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 | MFSB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.34% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $527M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.24% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 362 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.15% | +13.82% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.35% | +24.08% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +17.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.13% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 3.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | MFS Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 5, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MFSB vs VYM Performance
MFS Active Core Plus Bond ETF (MFSB) is a ETF from MFS Investment Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MFSB returned +2.35% while VYM returned +24.08%. Year to date, MFSB is down 0.15% versus a gain of 13.82% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 3.4% for MFSB. 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 -3.2% for MFSB 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 0.42. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MFSB charges 0.34% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $34 vs $4 annually, a gap of $30 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MFSB currently yields 4.24% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MFSB and VYM share 0 holdings out of 734 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, MFSB or VYM?
MFSB has an expense ratio of 0.34% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $30 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MFSB or VYM?
Over the past year MFSB returned +2.35% vs +24.08% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MFSB annualized +3.06% vs +6.98% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MFSB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 3.4% for MFSB. Worst drawdown: MFSB -3.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MFSB and VYM?
MFSB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.42, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MFSB and VYM?
MFSB and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 734 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MFSB or VYM?
MFSB yields 4.24% while VYM yields 2.86%, so MFSB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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