DSTL vs VYM
Distillate US Fundamental Stability & Value 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 | DSTL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.0B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.25% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 102 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +16.09% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.36% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.01% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.26% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Distillate Capital Etfs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 23, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DSTL vs VYM Performance
Distillate US Fundamental Stability & Value ETF (DSTL) is a ETF from Distillate Capital Etfs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DSTL returned +25.36% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, DSTL is up 16.09% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, DSTL compounded at +15.01% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +11.26% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, DSTL has the edge at +15.09% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DSTL 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 -33.1% for DSTL 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 0.92. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DSTL charges 0.39% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $4 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DSTL currently yields 1.25% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DSTL and VYM share 31 holdings out of 627 unique holdings combined, representing a 10.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DSTL or VYM?
DSTL has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DSTL or VYM?
Over the past year DSTL returned +25.36% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), DSTL annualized +15.09% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DSTL or VYM?
DSTL has been the more volatile fund at 17.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DSTL -33.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DSTL and VYM?
DSTL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.92, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between DSTL and VYM?
DSTL and VYM share 31 common holdings with a 10.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 627 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DSTL or VYM?
DSTL yields 1.25% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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