DFEV vs VYM
DFEV vs VYM
Dimensional Emerging Markets Value ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DFEV delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFEV offers more diversification with 3498 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFEV | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.43% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.0B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.04% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 3,595 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +20.83% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +37.99% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.29% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -18.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 26, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFEV vs VYM Performance
Dimensional Emerging Markets Value ETF (DFEV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFEV returned +37.99% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, DFEV is up 20.83% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, DFEV compounded at +22.29% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFEV has the edge at +15.99% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFEV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.7% 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 -18.5% for DFEV 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 0.61. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFEV charges 0.43% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $43 vs $4 annually, a gap of $39 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFEV currently yields 2.04% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFEV and VYM share 0 holdings out of 4056 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, DFEV or VYM?
DFEV has an expense ratio of 0.43% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $39 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFEV or VYM?
Over the past year DFEV returned +37.99% vs +26.12% for VYM, so DFEV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFEV annualized +15.99% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFEV or VYM?
DFEV has been the more volatile fund at 16.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DFEV -18.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFEV and VYM?
DFEV and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.61, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFEV and VYM?
DFEV and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 4056 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFEV or VYM?
DFEV yields 2.04% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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