DRLL vs VYM
Strive US Energy ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DRLL delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DRLL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.41% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $307M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.22% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 35 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +45.99% | +14.18% | |
| 1Y Return | +46.66% | +20.67% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.20% | +18.47% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.4% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Strive Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 8, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DRLL vs VYM Performance
Strive US Energy ETF (DRLL) is a ETF from Strive Asset Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DRLL returned +46.66% while VYM returned +20.67%. Year to date, DRLL is up 45.99% versus a gain of 14.18% for VYM.
Over three years, DRLL compounded at +14.20% per year against +18.47% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, DRLL has the edge at +15.87% annualized vs +6.97%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DRLL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.4% compared with 14.5% 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 -24.3% for DRLL 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DRLL charges 0.41% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $41 vs $4 annually, a gap of $37 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DRLL currently yields 2.22% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DRLL and VYM share 24 holdings out of 613 unique holdings combined, representing a 6.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DRLL or VYM?
DRLL has an expense ratio of 0.41% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $37 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DRLL or VYM?
Over the past year DRLL returned +46.66% vs +20.67% for VYM, so DRLL leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DRLL annualized +15.87% vs +6.97% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DRLL or VYM?
DRLL has been the more volatile fund at 23.4% annualized versus 14.5% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DRLL -24.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DRLL and VYM?
DRLL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DRLL and VYM?
DRLL and VYM share 24 common holdings with a 6.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 613 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DRLL or VYM?
DRLL yields 2.22% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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