DBEU vs VYM
Xtrackers MSCI Europe Hedged Equity 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 | DBEU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $800M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.40% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 410 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +13.38% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.37% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.58% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.69% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 1, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DBEU vs VYM Performance
Xtrackers MSCI Europe Hedged Equity ETF (DBEU) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DBEU returned +23.37% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, DBEU is up 13.38% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, DBEU compounded at +17.58% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +11.69% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, DBEU has the edge at +9.97% annualized vs +7.10%. 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 12.7% for DBEU. 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 -34.5% for DBEU 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DBEU charges 0.45% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $4 annually, a gap of $41 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DBEU currently yields 1.40% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DBEU and VYM share 1 holdings out of 1001 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 DBEU | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| TIGO:LU | 0.06% | 0.03% | 0.03% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DBEU or VYM?
DBEU has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $41 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DBEU or VYM?
Over the past year DBEU returned +23.37% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), DBEU annualized +9.97% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DBEU or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 12.7% for DBEU. Worst drawdown: DBEU -34.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DBEU and VYM?
DBEU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DBEU and VYM?
DBEU and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1001 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DBEU or VYM?
DBEU yields 1.40% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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