DBEM vs VYM
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Hedged Equity ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DBEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. DBEM offers more diversification with 1,175 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DBEM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.66% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $109M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.31% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 1,175 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +20.86% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +40.26% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.09% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.84% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -51.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 9, 2011 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DBEM vs VYM Performance
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Hedged Equity ETF (DBEM) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DBEM returned +40.26% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, DBEM is up 20.86% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, DBEM compounded at +23.09% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +9.84% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +3.78%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DBEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.7% 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 -51.7% for DBEM 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 0.40. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DBEM charges 0.66% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $66 vs $4 annually, a gap of $62 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DBEM currently yields 2.31% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DBEM and VYM share 4 holdings out of 1753 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DBEM or VYM?
DBEM has an expense ratio of 0.66% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $62 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DBEM or VYM?
Over the past year DBEM returned +40.26% vs +24.22% for VYM, so DBEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), DBEM annualized +3.78% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DBEM or VYM?
DBEM has been the more volatile fund at 21.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DBEM -51.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DBEM and VYM?
DBEM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.40, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DBEM and VYM?
DBEM and VYM share 4 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1753 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DBEM or VYM?
DBEM yields 2.31% while VYM yields 2.24%, so DBEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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