DGRS vs VYM
WisdomTree US SmallCap Quality Dividend Growth Fund 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 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DGRS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.38% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $408M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.04% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 201 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +19.67% | +14.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.13% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.76% | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.09% | +11.98% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.4% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | WisdomTree Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 25, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DGRS vs VYM Performance
WisdomTree US SmallCap Quality Dividend Growth Fund (DGRS) is a ETF from WisdomTree Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DGRS returned +20.13% while VYM returned +21.39%. Year to date, DGRS is up 19.67% versus a gain of 14.87% for VYM.
Over three years, DGRS compounded at +14.76% per year against +18.69% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.09% and +11.98% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, DGRS has the edge at +8.05% annualized vs +7.00%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DGRS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.4% compared with 14.5% 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 -45.7% for DGRS 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DGRS charges 0.38% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $38 vs $4 annually, a gap of $34 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DGRS currently yields 2.04% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DGRS and VYM share 57 holdings out of 744 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DGRS or VYM?
DGRS has an expense ratio of 0.38% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $34 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DGRS or VYM?
Over the past year DGRS returned +20.13% vs +21.39% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), DGRS annualized +8.05% vs +7.00% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DGRS or VYM?
DGRS has been the more volatile fund at 19.4% annualized versus 14.5% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DGRS -45.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DGRS and VYM?
DGRS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DGRS and VYM?
DGRS and VYM share 57 common holdings with a 0.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 744 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DGRS or VYM?
DGRS yields 2.04% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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