DFLV vs VYM
Dimensional US Large Cap Value ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DFLV delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFLV | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.21% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $7.0B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.36% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 339 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +22.17% | +15.25% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.88% | +22.18% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.27% | +18.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.09% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 6, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFLV vs VYM Performance
Dimensional US Large Cap Value ETF (DFLV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFLV returned +31.88% while VYM returned +22.18%. Year to date, DFLV is up 22.17% versus a gain of 15.25% for VYM.
Over three years, DFLV compounded at +20.27% per year against +18.83% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFLV has the edge at +17.23% annualized vs +7.03%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 13.2% for DFLV. 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 -16.8% for DFLV 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 0.95. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFLV charges 0.21% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $21 vs $4 annually, a gap of $17 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFLV currently yields 1.36% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFLV and VYM share 170 holdings out of 770 unique holdings combined, representing a 46.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFLV or VYM?
DFLV has an expense ratio of 0.21% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $17 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFLV or VYM?
Over the past year DFLV returned +31.88% vs +22.18% for VYM, so DFLV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFLV annualized +17.23% vs +7.03% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFLV or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.2% for DFLV. Worst drawdown: DFLV -16.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFLV and VYM?
DFLV and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.95, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between DFLV and VYM?
DFLV and VYM share 170 common holdings with a 46.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 770 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFLV or VYM?
DFLV yields 1.36% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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