DMAX vs VYM
DMAX vs VYM
iShares Large Cap Max Buffer Dec ETF 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 | DMAX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $138M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.88% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 7 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +3.50% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.04% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 31, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DMAX vs VYM Performance
iShares Large Cap Max Buffer Dec ETF (DMAX) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DMAX returned +6.04% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, DMAX is up 3.50% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 2.7% for DMAX. 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 -3.4% for DMAX 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DMAX charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DMAX currently yields 0.88% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DMAX and VYM share 0 holdings out of 561 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, DMAX or VYM?
DMAX has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DMAX or VYM?
Over the past year DMAX returned +6.04% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), DMAX annualized +6.36% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DMAX or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 2.7% for DMAX. Worst drawdown: DMAX -3.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DMAX and VYM?
DMAX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DMAX and VYM?
DMAX and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 561 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DMAX or VYM?
DMAX yields 0.88% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.