DYLD vs VYM
LeaderShares Dynamic Yield 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 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DYLD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $39M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.26% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 174 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +0.94% | +14.18% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.51% | +20.67% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.46% | +18.47% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.61% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.9% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -15.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | LeaderShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 28, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DYLD vs VYM Performance
LeaderShares Dynamic Yield ETF (DYLD) is a ETF from LeaderShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DYLD returned +2.51% while VYM returned +20.67%. Year to date, DYLD is up 0.94% versus a gain of 14.18% for VYM.
Over three years, DYLD compounded at +4.46% per year against +18.47% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.61% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +6.97% annualized vs +0.97%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.5% compared with 4.9% for DYLD. 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 -15.0% for DYLD 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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DYLD charges 0.75% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $4 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DYLD currently yields 4.26% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DYLD and VYM share 19 holdings out of 622 unique holdings combined, representing a 15.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DYLD or VYM?
DYLD has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DYLD or VYM?
Over the past year DYLD returned +2.51% vs +20.67% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DYLD annualized +0.97% vs +6.97% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DYLD or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.5% annualized versus 4.9% for DYLD. Worst drawdown: DYLD -15.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DYLD and VYM?
DYLD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DYLD and VYM?
DYLD and VYM share 19 common holdings with a 15.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 622 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DYLD or VYM?
DYLD yields 4.26% while VYM yields 2.24%, so DYLD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.