VDG vs VYM

VDG vs VYM
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Quick Verdict

VYM has a lower expense ratio. VDG offers more diversification with 634 holdings.

Lower Fees: VYMHigher Returns: TiedMore Diversified: VDG

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricVDGVYMWinner
Expense Ratio0.08%0.04%
AUM$33M$81.6B
Dividend Yield0.32%2.24%
Holdings634616
YTD Return+8.62%+15.60%
1Y Return-+23.48%
3Y Return (annualized)-+19.07%
5Y Return (annualized)-+12.50%
Volatility (annualized)-14.6%
Max Drawdown-6.4%-58.8%
Fund FamilyVanguard (US)Vanguard (US)
CategoryEquityEquity
InceptionMar 31, 2026Nov 10, 2006

VDG vs VYM Performance

Vanguard Developed Markets ex-US Growth Index ETF (VDG) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Year to date, VDG is up 8.62% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -6.4% for VDG and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.

Fees and Cost Over Time

VDG charges 0.08% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $8 vs $4 annually, a gap of $4 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VDG currently yields 0.32% against 2.24% for VYM.

Holdings Overlap

0.1%overlap

VDG and VYM share 2 holdings out of 1214 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.

Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.

Top Shared Holdings

StockWeight in VDGWeight in VYMDifference
ORCL0.01%1.04%1.03%
BK0.04%0.41%0.37%

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, VDG or VYM?

VDG has an expense ratio of 0.08% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $4 per year of difference.

What is the holdings overlap between VDG and VYM?

VDG and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1214 unique securities.

Which pays a higher dividend, VDG or VYM?

VDG yields 0.32% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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