DNL vs VYM
WisdomTree Global ex-US Quality Growth 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 603 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DNL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.42% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $505M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.32% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 202 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +12.66% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.98% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.19% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.35% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | WisdomTree Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 16, 2006 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DNL vs VYM Performance
WisdomTree Global ex-US Quality Growth Fund (DNL) is a ETF from WisdomTree Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DNL returned +20.98% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, DNL is up 12.66% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, DNL compounded at +12.19% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +4.35% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +3.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DNL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.4% 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 -46.9% for DNL 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 0.76. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DNL charges 0.42% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $42 vs $4 annually, a gap of $38 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DNL currently yields 1.32% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DNL and VYM share 1 holdings out of 804 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in DNL | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SIG:LN | 0.34% | 0.01% | 0.33% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DNL or VYM?
DNL has an expense ratio of 0.42% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $38 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DNL or VYM?
Over the past year DNL returned +20.98% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), DNL annualized +3.83% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DNL or VYM?
DNL has been the more volatile fund at 16.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DNL -46.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DNL and VYM?
DNL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.76, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DNL and VYM?
DNL and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 804 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DNL or VYM?
DNL yields 1.32% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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