DMA vs VYM
Destra Multi-Alternative 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DMA | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.69% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $80M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 13.39% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 181 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -6.70% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.28% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +24.13% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -38.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Destra Capital Investment LLC | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 13, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DMA vs VYM Performance
Destra Multi-Alternative Fund (DMA) is a ETF from Destra Capital Investment LLC and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DMA returned +1.28% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, DMA is down 6.70% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, DMA compounded at +24.13% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +4.99%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DMA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.4% 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 -38.9% for DMA 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 0.27. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DMA charges 3.69% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $369 vs $4 annually, a gap of $365 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DMA currently yields 13.39% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DMA and VYM share 19 holdings out of 602 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DMA or VYM?
DMA has an expense ratio of 3.69% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $365 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DMA or VYM?
Over the past year DMA returned +1.28% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DMA annualized +4.99% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DMA or VYM?
DMA has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DMA -38.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DMA and VYM?
DMA and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.27, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DMA and VYM?
DMA and VYM share 19 common holdings with a 5.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 602 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DMA or VYM?
DMA yields 13.39% while VYM yields 2.86%, so DMA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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