DDX vs VYM
Defined Duration 10 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DDX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $72M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.33% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +4.53% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.40% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.64% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.29% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Discipline Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 20, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DDX vs VYM Performance
Defined Duration 10 ETF (DDX) is a ETF from Discipline Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DDX returned +8.40% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, DDX is up 4.53% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, DDX compounded at +7.64% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.29% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +0.29%. 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 8.7% for DDX. 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 -27.3% for DDX 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DDX charges 0.25% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $4 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DDX currently yields 3.33% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DDX and VYM share 0 holdings out of 564 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DDX or VYM?
DDX has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DDX or VYM?
Over the past year DDX returned +8.40% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DDX annualized +0.29% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DDX or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 8.7% for DDX. Worst drawdown: DDX -27.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DDX and VYM?
DDX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DDX and VYM?
DDX and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 564 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DDX or VYM?
DDX yields 3.33% while VYM yields 2.86%, so DDX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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