DLFE vs VYM

Quick Verdict

VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.

Lower Fees: VYMHigher Returns: TiedMore Diversified: VYM

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricDLFEVYMWinner
Expense Ratio0.85%0.04%
AUM$65M$79.0B
Dividend Yield0.00%2.86%
Holdings1568
YTD Return+6.92%+15.80%
1Y Return-+26.12%
3Y Return (annualized)-+18.25%
5Y Return (annualized)-+12.51%
Volatility (annualized)-14.6%
Max Drawdown-5.0%-58.8%
Fund FamilyFirst Trust Portfolios (US)Vanguard (US)
CategoryAlternativeEquity
InceptionFeb 20, 2026Nov 10, 2006

DLFE vs VYM Performance

FT Vest US Equity Dual Directional Buffer ETF - February (DLFE) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Year to date, DLFE is up 6.92% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -5.0% for DLFE 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

DLFE 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, DLFE currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.

Holdings Overlap

0.0%overlap

DLFE and VYM share 0 holdings out of 559 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.

Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, DLFE or VYM?

DLFE 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.

What is the holdings overlap between DLFE and VYM?

DLFE and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 559 unique securities.

Which pays a higher dividend, DLFE or VYM?

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

Get Full ETF Analytics

Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.

X-ray your whole portfolio
$99/yr7-day refund. ETFs, mutual funds, 401(k)s.
Get Pro →