DFSD vs VYM
DFSD vs VYM
Dimensional Short-Duration Fixed Income ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFSD offers more diversification with 1125 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFSD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.16% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $7.1B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.18% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1,500 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.02% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.07% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.19% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -8.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 15, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFSD vs VYM Performance
Dimensional Short-Duration Fixed Income ETF (DFSD) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSD returned +3.07% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, DFSD is up 1.02% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, DFSD compounded at +5.19% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +2.53%. 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 2.7% for DFSD. 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 -8.4% for DFSD 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 0.50. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSD charges 0.16% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $16 vs $4 annually, a gap of $12 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSD currently yields 4.18% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFSD and VYM share 0 holdings out of 1683 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, DFSD or VYM?
DFSD has an expense ratio of 0.16% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $12 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSD or VYM?
Over the past year DFSD returned +3.07% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFSD annualized +2.53% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSD or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 2.7% for DFSD. Worst drawdown: DFSD -8.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFSD and VYM?
DFSD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.50, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSD and VYM?
DFSD and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1683 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSD or VYM?
DFSD yields 4.18% while VYM yields 2.86%, so DFSD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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