DLAG vs VYM

Quick Verdict

VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.

Lower Fees: VYMHigher Returns: VYMMore Diversified: VYM

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricDLAGVYMWinner
Expense Ratio0.85%0.04%
AUM$12M$79.0B
Dividend Yield0.00%2.86%
Holdings6568
YTD Return+7.32%+16.53%
1Y Return+9.59%+25.03%
3Y Return (annualized)-+18.54%
5Y Return (annualized)-+12.25%
Volatility (annualized)-14.6%
Max Drawdown-4.2%-58.8%
Fund FamilyFirst Trust Portfolios (US)Vanguard (US)
CategoryAlternativeEquity
InceptionSep 19, 2025Nov 10, 2006

DLAG vs VYM Performance

FT Vest US Equity Dual Directional Buffer ETF - August (DLAG) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DLAG returned +9.59% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, DLAG is up 7.32% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -4.2% for DLAG and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.

Fees and Cost Over Time

DLAG charges 0.85% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $4 annually, a gap of $81 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DLAG currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, DLAG or VYM?

DLAG has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $81 per year of difference.

Which performed better, DLAG or VYM?

Over the past year DLAG returned +9.59% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which pays a higher dividend, DLAG or VYM?

DLAG yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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