DFGR vs VYM
DFGR vs VYM
Dimensional Global Real Estate 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 | DFGR | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.22% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $3.9B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.70% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 467 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +13.00% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.85% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.40% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -21.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 6, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFGR vs VYM Performance
Dimensional Global Real Estate ETF (DFGR) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFGR returned +14.85% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, DFGR is up 13.00% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, DFGR compounded at +10.40% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFGR has the edge at +8.41% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFGR has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.9% 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 -21.3% for DFGR 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFGR charges 0.22% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $22 vs $4 annually, a gap of $18 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFGR currently yields 3.70% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFGR and VYM share 0 holdings out of 1002 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, DFGR or VYM?
DFGR has an expense ratio of 0.22% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $18 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFGR or VYM?
Over the past year DFGR returned +14.85% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFGR annualized +8.41% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFGR or VYM?
DFGR has been the more volatile fund at 15.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DFGR -21.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFGR and VYM?
DFGR and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFGR and VYM?
DFGR and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1002 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFGR or VYM?
DFGR yields 3.70% while VYM yields 2.86%, so DFGR currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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