DFAS vs VYM
Dimensional US Small Cap ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DFAS delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFAS offers more diversification with 2,102 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFAS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.26% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $15.9B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.98% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 2,102 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +17.24% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.90% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.21% | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.43% | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 15, 1998 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFAS vs VYM Performance
Dimensional US Small Cap ETF (DFAS) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAS returned +20.90% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, DFAS is up 17.24% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Over three years, DFAS compounded at +15.21% per year against +18.34% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.43% and +12.04% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFAS has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs +7.01%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFAS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.1% 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 -26.1% for DFAS 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFAS charges 0.26% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $26 vs $4 annually, a gap of $22 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAS currently yields 0.98% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFAS and VYM share 338 holdings out of 2330 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFAS or VYM?
DFAS has an expense ratio of 0.26% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $22 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAS or VYM?
Over the past year DFAS returned +20.90% vs +20.88% for VYM, so DFAS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFAS annualized +8.16% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAS or VYM?
DFAS has been the more volatile fund at 19.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DFAS -26.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFAS and VYM?
DFAS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFAS and VYM?
DFAS and VYM share 338 common holdings with a 7.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2330 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAS or VYM?
DFAS yields 0.98% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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