DFIV vs VYM
Dimensional International Value ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DFIV delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFIV | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.27% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $22.1B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.58% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 607 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +16.80% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +32.05% | +21.08% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +24.54% | +18.16% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +16.04% | +12.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -25.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 16, 1999 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFIV vs VYM Performance
Dimensional International Value ETF (DFIV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFIV returned +32.05% while VYM returned +21.08%. Year to date, DFIV is up 16.80% versus a gain of 14.57% for VYM.
Over three years, DFIV compounded at +24.54% per year against +18.16% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +16.04% and +12.00% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFIV has the edge at +16.04% annualized vs +6.99%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFIV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.8% 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 -25.4% for DFIV 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFIV charges 0.27% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $27 vs $4 annually, a gap of $23 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFIV currently yields 2.58% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFIV and VYM share 1 holdings out of 1188 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in DFIV | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP | 0.12% | 0.08% | 0.04% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFIV or VYM?
DFIV has an expense ratio of 0.27% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $23 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFIV or VYM?
Over the past year DFIV returned +32.05% vs +21.08% for VYM, so DFIV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFIV annualized +16.04% vs +6.99% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFIV or VYM?
DFIV has been the more volatile fund at 15.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DFIV -25.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFIV and VYM?
DFIV and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFIV and VYM?
DFIV and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1188 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFIV or VYM?
DFIV yields 2.58% while VYM yields 2.24%, so DFIV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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