DFAT vs VYM
Dimensional US Targeted Value ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DFAT delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFAT offers more diversification with 1,234 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFAT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.28% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $14.6B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.36% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 1,234 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +18.84% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.00% | +21.08% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.01% | +18.16% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.98% | +12.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 1998 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFAT vs VYM Performance
Dimensional US Targeted Value ETF (DFAT) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAT returned +23.00% while VYM returned +21.08%. Year to date, DFAT is up 18.84% versus a gain of 14.57% for VYM.
Over three years, DFAT compounded at +15.01% per year against +18.16% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +10.98% and +12.00% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFAT has the edge at +10.37% annualized vs +6.99%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFAT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.9% 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 DFAT 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 0.88. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFAT charges 0.28% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $28 vs $4 annually, a gap of $24 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAT currently yields 1.36% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFAT and VYM share 247 holdings out of 1550 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFAT or VYM?
DFAT has an expense ratio of 0.28% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $24 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAT or VYM?
Over the past year DFAT returned +23.00% vs +21.08% for VYM, so DFAT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFAT annualized +10.37% vs +6.99% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAT or VYM?
DFAT has been the more volatile fund at 19.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DFAT -26.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFAT and VYM?
DFAT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.88, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFAT and VYM?
DFAT and VYM share 247 common holdings with a 5.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1550 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAT or VYM?
DFAT yields 1.36% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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