DEEF vs VYM
Xtrackers FTSE Developed ex US Multifactor ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. DEEF offers more diversification with 1,244 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DEEF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $57M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.38% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 1,244 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +14.39% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.75% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.02% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.25% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -40.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 24, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DEEF vs VYM Performance
Xtrackers FTSE Developed ex US Multifactor ETF (DEEF) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DEEF returned +21.75% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, DEEF is up 14.39% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, DEEF compounded at +19.02% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.25% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +6.62%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DEEF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.0% compared with 14.6% for VYM. 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 -40.6% for DEEF 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DEEF charges 0.24% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $4 annually, a gap of $20 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DEEF currently yields 3.38% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DEEF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 1831 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, DEEF or VYM?
DEEF has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $20 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DEEF or VYM?
Over the past year DEEF returned +21.75% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), DEEF annualized +6.62% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DEEF or VYM?
DEEF has been the more volatile fund at 15.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DEEF -40.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DEEF and VYM?
DEEF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DEEF and VYM?
DEEF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1831 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DEEF or VYM?
DEEF yields 3.38% while VYM yields 2.24%, so DEEF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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