HDEF vs VYM
Xtrackers MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Equity 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 | HDEF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.09% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.68% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 123 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +11.48% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.13% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.18% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.50% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -38.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 12, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HDEF vs VYM Performance
Xtrackers MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Equity ETF (HDEF) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HDEF returned +18.13% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, HDEF is up 11.48% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, HDEF compounded at +19.18% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +11.50% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +5.44%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HDEF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.7% 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 -38.2% for HDEF 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HDEF charges 0.09% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $9 vs $4 annually, a gap of $5 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HDEF currently yields 3.68% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
HDEF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 716 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, HDEF or VYM?
HDEF has an expense ratio of 0.09% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $5 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HDEF or VYM?
Over the past year HDEF returned +18.13% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), HDEF annualized +5.44% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HDEF or VYM?
HDEF has been the more volatile fund at 14.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: HDEF -38.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HDEF and VYM?
HDEF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HDEF and VYM?
HDEF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 716 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HDEF or VYM?
HDEF yields 3.68% while VYM yields 2.24%, so HDEF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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