DRSK vs VYM
Aptus Defined Risk 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 | DRSK | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.78% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.5B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.70% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 25 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.48% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.02% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.99% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.22% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Aptus Capital Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 7, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DRSK vs VYM Performance
Aptus Defined Risk ETF (DRSK) is a ETF from Aptus Capital Advisors and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DRSK returned +1.02% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, DRSK is up 1.48% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, DRSK compounded at +7.99% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +2.22% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +5.05%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 7.9% for DRSK. 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 -19.9% for DRSK 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DRSK charges 0.78% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $78 vs $4 annually, a gap of $74 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DRSK currently yields 3.70% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DRSK and VYM share 0 holdings out of 568 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, DRSK or VYM?
DRSK has an expense ratio of 0.78% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $74 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DRSK or VYM?
Over the past year DRSK returned +1.02% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), DRSK annualized +5.05% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DRSK or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 7.9% for DRSK. Worst drawdown: DRSK -19.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DRSK and VYM?
DRSK and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DRSK and VYM?
DRSK and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 568 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DRSK or VYM?
DRSK yields 3.70% while VYM yields 2.86%, so DRSK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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