DFSV vs VYM
Dimensional US Small Cap Value ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DFSV delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFSV offers more diversification with 1,018 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFSV | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $8.6B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.35% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 1,018 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +22.18% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.65% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.18% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 23, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFSV vs VYM Performance
Dimensional US Small Cap Value ETF (DFSV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSV returned +31.65% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, DFSV is up 22.18% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, DFSV compounded at +17.18% per year against +19.07% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFSV has the edge at +12.90% annualized vs +7.05%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFSV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.4% 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 -28.0% for DFSV 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSV charges 0.30% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $4 annually, a gap of $26 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSV currently yields 1.35% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFSV and VYM share 201 holdings out of 1414 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFSV or VYM?
DFSV has an expense ratio of 0.30% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $26 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSV or VYM?
Over the past year DFSV returned +31.65% vs +23.48% for VYM, so DFSV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFSV annualized +12.90% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSV or VYM?
DFSV has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DFSV -28.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFSV and VYM?
DFSV and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSV and VYM?
DFSV and VYM share 201 common holdings with a 4.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1414 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSV or VYM?
DFSV yields 1.35% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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