DOL vs VYM
WisdomTree True Developed International Fund vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DOL delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DOL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.51% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $855M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.44% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 297 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +17.12% | +15.84% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.46% | +23.95% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.57% | +19.02% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.86% | +12.19% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -63.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | WisdomTree Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 16, 2006 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DOL vs VYM Performance
WisdomTree True Developed International Fund (DOL) is a ETF from WisdomTree Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DOL returned +27.46% while VYM returned +23.95%. Year to date, DOL is up 17.12% versus a gain of 15.84% for VYM.
Over three years, DOL compounded at +22.57% per year against +19.02% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.86% and +12.19% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +3.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DOL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.1% 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 -63.9% for DOL 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DOL charges 0.51% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $51 vs $4 annually, a gap of $47 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DOL currently yields 2.44% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DOL and VYM share 1 holdings out of 896 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 DOL | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SIG:LN | 0.05% | 0.01% | 0.04% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DOL or VYM?
DOL has an expense ratio of 0.51% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $47 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DOL or VYM?
Over the past year DOL returned +27.46% vs +23.95% for VYM, so DOL leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), DOL annualized +3.16% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DOL or VYM?
DOL has been the more volatile fund at 17.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DOL -63.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DOL and VYM?
DOL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DOL and VYM?
DOL and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 896 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DOL or VYM?
DOL yields 2.44% while VYM yields 2.24%, so DOL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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