DDFS vs VYM
Innovator Equity Dual Directional 15 Buffer ETF - September 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 | DDFS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $46M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 7 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +5.22% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.58% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | - | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -2.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 2, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DDFS vs VYM Performance
Innovator Equity Dual Directional 15 Buffer ETF - September (DDFS) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DDFS returned +8.58% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, DDFS is up 5.22% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -2.3% for DDFS and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DDFS charges 0.79% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $79 vs $4 annually, a gap of $75 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DDFS currently yields 0.00% against 2.24% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DDFS or VYM?
DDFS has an expense ratio of 0.79% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $75 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DDFS or VYM?
Over the past year DDFS returned +8.58% vs +20.88% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which pays a higher dividend, DDFS or VYM?
DDFS yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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