DDLS vs VYM
WisdomTree Dynamic International SmallCap Equity Fund vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. DDLS offers more diversification with 1,040 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DDLS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.48% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $431M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.62% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 1,040 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +7.06% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.97% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.57% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.39% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | WisdomTree Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 7, 2016 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DDLS vs VYM Performance
WisdomTree Dynamic International SmallCap Equity Fund (DDLS) is a ETF from WisdomTree Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DDLS returned +12.97% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, DDLS is up 7.06% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, DDLS compounded at +17.57% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +9.39% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, DDLS has the edge at +9.77% 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 13.5% for DDLS. 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 -36.8% for DDLS 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 0.81. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DDLS charges 0.48% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $48 vs $4 annually, a gap of $44 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DDLS currently yields 3.62% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DDLS and VYM share 1 holdings out of 1537 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 DDLS | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| THO | 0.04% | 0.02% | 0.02% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DDLS or VYM?
DDLS has an expense ratio of 0.48% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $44 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DDLS or VYM?
Over the past year DDLS returned +12.97% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), DDLS annualized +9.77% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DDLS or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.5% for DDLS. Worst drawdown: DDLS -36.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DDLS and VYM?
DDLS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.81, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DDLS and VYM?
DDLS and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1537 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DDLS or VYM?
DDLS yields 3.62% while VYM yields 2.24%, so DDLS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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