CDL vs VYM
VictoryShares US Large Cap High Div Volatility Wtd 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 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CDL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $409M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.03% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 102 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +18.03% | +14.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.48% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.55% | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.10% | +11.98% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.9% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -41.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Victory Capital Management Inc. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 7, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CDL vs VYM Performance
VictoryShares US Large Cap High Div Volatility Wtd ETF (CDL) is a ETF from Victory Capital Management Inc. and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CDL returned +20.48% while VYM returned +21.39%. Year to date, CDL is up 18.03% versus a gain of 14.87% for VYM.
Over three years, CDL compounded at +16.55% per year against +18.69% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +10.10% and +11.98% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, CDL has the edge at +9.59% annualized vs +7.00%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CDL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.9% compared with 14.5% 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 -41.4% for CDL 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 0.95. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CDL charges 0.35% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $4 annually, a gap of $31 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CDL currently yields 3.03% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
CDL and VYM share 96 holdings out of 607 unique holdings combined, representing a 30.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CDL or VYM?
CDL has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $31 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CDL or VYM?
Over the past year CDL returned +20.48% vs +21.39% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), CDL annualized +9.59% vs +7.00% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CDL or VYM?
CDL has been the more volatile fund at 14.9% annualized versus 14.5% for VYM. Worst drawdown: CDL -41.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CDL and VYM?
CDL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.95, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between CDL and VYM?
CDL and VYM share 96 common holdings with a 30.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 607 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CDL or VYM?
CDL yields 3.03% while VYM yields 2.24%, so CDL 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.