DFUS vs VYM
Dimensional US Equity Market ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFUS offers more diversification with 2,253 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFUS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.09% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $21.8B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.86% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 2,253 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +12.64% | +15.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.43% | +22.36% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.71% | +19.06% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.51% | +12.20% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 25, 2001 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFUS vs VYM Performance
Dimensional US Equity Market ETF (DFUS) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFUS returned +20.43% while VYM returned +22.36%. Year to date, DFUS is up 12.64% versus a gain of 15.42% for VYM.
Over three years, DFUS compounded at +21.71% per year against +19.06% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.51% and +12.20% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFUS has the edge at +13.20% annualized vs +7.04%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFUS 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 -24.6% for DFUS 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFUS charges 0.09% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $9 vs $4 annually, a gap of $5 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFUS currently yields 0.86% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFUS and VYM share 557 holdings out of 2279 unique holdings combined, representing a 33.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFUS or VYM?
DFUS has an expense ratio of 0.09% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $5 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFUS or VYM?
Over the past year DFUS returned +20.43% vs +22.36% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFUS annualized +13.20% vs +7.04% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFUS or VYM?
DFUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DFUS -24.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFUS and VYM?
DFUS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFUS and VYM?
DFUS and VYM share 557 common holdings with a 33.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2279 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFUS or VYM?
DFUS yields 0.86% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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