SYSB vs VYM
SYSB vs VYM
iShares Systematic Bond ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. SYSB offers more diversification with 692 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SYSB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.2B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.60% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 843 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -2.84% | +15.20% | |
| 1Y Return | -1.69% | +25.56% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +1.33% | +17.86% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -2.89% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 24, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SYSB vs VYM Performance
iShares Systematic Bond ETF (SYSB) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SYSB returned -1.69% while VYM returned +25.56%. Year to date, SYSB is down 2.84% versus a gain of 15.20% for VYM.
Over three years, SYSB compounded at +1.33% per year against +17.86% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -2.89% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% annualized vs -1.16%. 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 4.6% for SYSB. 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 -22.4% for SYSB 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 0.54. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SYSB charges 0.25% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $4 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SYSB currently yields 4.60% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
SYSB and VYM share 1 holdings out of 1249 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 SYSB | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| KDP | 0.03% | 0.17% | 0.14% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SYSB or VYM?
SYSB has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SYSB or VYM?
Over the past year SYSB returned -1.69% vs +25.56% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), SYSB annualized -1.16% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SYSB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 4.6% for SYSB. Worst drawdown: SYSB -22.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SYSB and VYM?
SYSB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.54, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SYSB and VYM?
SYSB and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1249 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SYSB or VYM?
SYSB yields 4.60% while VYM yields 2.86%, so SYSB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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