PYLD vs VYM
PYLD vs VYM
PIMCO Multisector Bond Active Exchange-Traded Fund vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. PYLD offers more diversification with 666 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PYLD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.64% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $15.0B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.26% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1,576 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +0.33% | +13.82% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.22% | +24.08% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.74% | +17.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.13% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -4.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | PIMCO (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 21, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PYLD vs VYM Performance
PIMCO Multisector Bond Active Exchange-Traded Fund (PYLD) is a ETF from PIMCO (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PYLD returned +4.22% while VYM returned +24.08%. Year to date, PYLD is up 0.33% versus a gain of 13.82% for VYM.
Over three years, PYLD compounded at +7.74% per year against +17.72% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, PYLD has the edge at +7.47% annualized vs +6.98%. 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 4.8% for PYLD. 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 -4.5% for PYLD 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 usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PYLD charges 0.64% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $64 vs $4 annually, a gap of $60 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PYLD currently yields 6.26% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
PYLD and VYM share 0 holdings out of 1224 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, PYLD or VYM?
PYLD has an expense ratio of 0.64% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $60 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PYLD or VYM?
Over the past year PYLD returned +4.22% vs +24.08% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), PYLD annualized +7.47% vs +6.98% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PYLD or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 4.8% for PYLD. Worst drawdown: PYLD -4.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PYLD and VYM?
PYLD 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 PYLD and VYM?
PYLD and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1224 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PYLD or VYM?
PYLD yields 6.26% while VYM yields 2.86%, so PYLD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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