DFIS vs VYM
Dimensional International Small Cap ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFIS offers more diversification with 3438 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFIS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $5.7B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.04% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 3,519 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +11.89% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.79% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.31% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 23, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFIS vs VYM Performance
Dimensional International Small Cap ETF (DFIS) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFIS returned +22.79% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, DFIS is up 11.89% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, DFIS compounded at +19.31% per year against +18.29% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFIS has the edge at +11.53% annualized vs +7.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFIS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.4% 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 -27.2% for DFIS 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 0.80. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFIS charges 0.39% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $4 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFIS currently yields 2.04% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFIS and VYM share 6 holdings out of 3990 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFIS or VYM?
DFIS has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFIS or VYM?
Over the past year DFIS returned +22.79% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFIS annualized +11.53% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFIS or VYM?
DFIS has been the more volatile fund at 17.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DFIS -27.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFIS and VYM?
DFIS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFIS and VYM?
DFIS and VYM share 6 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3990 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFIS or VYM?
DFIS yields 2.04% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.