DAX vs VYM
Global X Dax Germany 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DAX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $236M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.06% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 44 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +4.38% | +15.75% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.82% | +23.85% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.40% | +19.14% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.46% | +12.45% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 33.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -56.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 22, 2014 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DAX vs VYM Performance
Global X Dax Germany ETF (DAX) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DAX returned +5.82% while VYM returned +23.85%. Year to date, DAX is up 4.38% versus a gain of 15.75% for VYM.
Over three years, DAX compounded at +20.40% per year against +19.14% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +9.46% and +12.45% respectively. Across the full 18-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.06% annualized vs +4.36%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DAX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 33.7% compared with 14.6% 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 -56.1% for DAX 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 0.50. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DAX charges 0.20% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $4 annually, a gap of $16 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DAX currently yields 2.06% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DAX and VYM share 1 holdings out of 642 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in DAX | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| MRK | 1.05% | 1.32% | 0.27% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DAX or VYM?
DAX has an expense ratio of 0.20% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $16 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DAX or VYM?
Over the past year DAX returned +5.82% vs +23.85% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (18 years), DAX annualized +4.36% vs +7.06% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DAX or VYM?
DAX has been the more volatile fund at 33.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DAX -56.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DAX and VYM?
DAX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.50, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DAX and VYM?
DAX and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 1.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 642 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DAX or VYM?
DAX yields 2.06% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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