DVLU vs VYM
First Trust Dorsey Wright Momentum & Value ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DVLU delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DVLU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $51M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.66% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +17.37% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +39.65% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.00% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.99% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -53.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 5, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DVLU vs VYM Performance
First Trust Dorsey Wright Momentum & Value ETF (DVLU) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DVLU returned +39.65% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, DVLU is up 17.37% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, DVLU compounded at +22.00% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.99% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, DVLU has the edge at +11.09% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DVLU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.1% 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 -53.3% for DVLU 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 0.90. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DVLU charges 0.60% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $4 annually, a gap of $56 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DVLU currently yields 0.66% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DVLU and VYM share 26 holdings out of 627 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DVLU or VYM?
DVLU has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $56 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DVLU or VYM?
Over the past year DVLU returned +39.65% vs +24.22% for VYM, so DVLU leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), DVLU annualized +11.09% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DVLU or VYM?
DVLU has been the more volatile fund at 24.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DVLU -53.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DVLU and VYM?
DVLU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.90, 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 DVLU and VYM?
DVLU and VYM share 26 common holdings with a 8.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 627 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DVLU or VYM?
DVLU yields 0.66% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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