PULS vs VYM
PULS vs VYM
PGIM Ultra Short 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 | PULS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $18.2B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.28% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 683 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +2.30% | +13.24% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.49% | +23.76% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.44% | +16.97% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.24% | +12.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 1.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -6.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | PGIM Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 5, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PULS vs VYM Performance
PGIM Ultra Short Bond ETF (PULS) is a ETF from PGIM Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PULS returned +4.49% while VYM returned +23.76%. Year to date, PULS is up 2.30% versus a gain of 13.24% for VYM.
Over three years, PULS compounded at +5.44% per year against +16.97% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +4.24% and +12.26% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +6.96% annualized vs +2.53%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 1.5% for PULS. 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 -6.1% for PULS 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 0.43. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PULS charges 0.15% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $4 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PULS currently yields 5.28% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
PULS and VYM share 1 holdings out of 969 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in PULS | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SYY | 0.10% | 0.19% | 0.09% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PULS or VYM?
PULS has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PULS or VYM?
Over the past year PULS returned +4.49% vs +23.76% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), PULS annualized +2.53% vs +6.96% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PULS or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 1.5% for PULS. Worst drawdown: PULS -6.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PULS and VYM?
PULS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.43, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PULS and VYM?
PULS and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 969 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PULS or VYM?
PULS yields 5.28% while VYM yields 2.86%, so PULS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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