DWSH vs VYM
AdvisorShares Dorsey Wright Short 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DWSH | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 6.22% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $6M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.98% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 101 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -15.76% | +15.25% | |
| 1Y Return | -13.89% | +22.18% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -7.54% | +18.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -4.92% | +12.09% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 30.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -84.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Advisor Shares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 10, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DWSH vs VYM Performance
AdvisorShares Dorsey Wright Short ETF (DWSH) is a ETF from Advisor Shares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DWSH returned -13.89% while VYM returned +22.18%. Year to date, DWSH is down 15.76% versus a gain of 15.25% for VYM.
Over three years, DWSH compounded at -7.54% per year against +18.83% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -4.92% and +12.09% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.03% annualized vs -14.87%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DWSH has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.6% 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 -84.4% for DWSH 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 move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DWSH charges 6.22% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $622 vs $4 annually, a gap of $618 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DWSH currently yields 6.98% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DWSH and VYM share 36 holdings out of 666 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, DWSH or VYM?
DWSH has an expense ratio of 6.22% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $618 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DWSH or VYM?
Over the past year DWSH returned -13.89% vs +22.18% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), DWSH annualized -14.87% vs +7.03% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DWSH or VYM?
DWSH has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DWSH -84.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DWSH and VYM?
DWSH 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 DWSH and VYM?
DWSH and VYM share 36 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 666 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DWSH or VYM?
DWSH yields 6.98% while VYM yields 2.24%, so DWSH currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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