DIM vs VYM
WisdomTree International MidCap Dividend 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DIM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.58% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $170M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.97% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 594 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +12.21% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.82% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.62% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.02% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -64.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | WisdomTree Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 16, 2006 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DIM vs VYM Performance
WisdomTree International MidCap Dividend Fund (DIM) is a ETF from WisdomTree Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DIM returned +18.82% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, DIM is up 12.21% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, DIM compounded at +19.62% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +9.02% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +3.93%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DIM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.7% 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 -64.7% for DIM 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
DIM charges 0.58% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $58 vs $4 annually, a gap of $54 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DIM currently yields 2.97% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DIM and VYM share 4 holdings out of 1177 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DIM or VYM?
DIM has an expense ratio of 0.58% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $54 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DIM or VYM?
Over the past year DIM returned +18.82% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), DIM annualized +3.93% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DIM or VYM?
DIM has been the more volatile fund at 17.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DIM -64.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DIM and VYM?
DIM 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 DIM and VYM?
DIM and VYM share 4 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1177 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DIM or VYM?
DIM yields 2.97% while VYM yields 2.24%, so DIM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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