DFVX vs VYM
Dimensional US Large Cap Vector ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFVX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.19% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $548M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.14% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 315 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +15.54% | +15.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.96% | +22.36% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.06% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.20% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 2, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFVX vs VYM Performance
Dimensional US Large Cap Vector ETF (DFVX) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFVX returned +21.96% while VYM returned +22.36%. Year to date, DFVX is up 15.54% versus a gain of 15.42% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 11.5% for DFVX. 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 -16.7% for DFVX 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 0.90. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFVX charges 0.19% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $19 vs $4 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFVX currently yields 1.14% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFVX and VYM share 160 holdings out of 762 unique holdings combined, representing a 45.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFVX or VYM?
DFVX has an expense ratio of 0.19% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFVX or VYM?
Over the past year DFVX returned +21.96% vs +22.36% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), DFVX annualized +21.58% vs +7.04% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFVX or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 11.5% for DFVX. Worst drawdown: DFVX -16.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFVX and VYM?
DFVX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.90, 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 DFVX and VYM?
DFVX and VYM share 160 common holdings with a 45.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 762 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFVX or VYM?
DFVX yields 1.14% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.