DECW vs VYM
AllianzIM US Equity Buffer20 Dec 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 | DECW | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.74% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $226M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +6.68% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.28% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.63% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 6.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -8.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | AllianzIM | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 30, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DECW vs VYM Performance
AllianzIM US Equity Buffer20 Dec ETF (DECW) is a ETF from AllianzIM and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DECW returned +13.28% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, DECW is up 6.68% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, DECW compounded at +10.63% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, DECW has the edge at +10.86% annualized vs +7.07%. 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 6.8% for DECW. 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 -8.8% for DECW 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DECW charges 0.74% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $74 vs $4 annually, a gap of $70 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DECW currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DECW or VYM?
DECW has an expense ratio of 0.74% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $70 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DECW or VYM?
Over the past year DECW returned +13.28% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DECW annualized +10.86% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DECW or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 6.8% for DECW. Worst drawdown: DECW -8.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DECW and VYM?
DECW and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, DECW or VYM?
DECW yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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