VYM vs XDEF
Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF vs Xtrackers Europe Defense Technologies ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VYM | XDEF | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.04% | 0.35% | |
| AUM | $79.0B | $4M | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.86% | 1.57% | |
| Holdings | 568 | 32 | |
| YTD Return | +16.16% | -2.09% | |
| 1Y Return | +26.05% | - | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.43% | - | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.21% | - | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | - | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.8% | -19.0% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Xtrackers ETFs | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 10, 2006 | Feb 19, 2026 |
VYM vs XDEF Performance
Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Xtrackers Europe Defense Technologies ETF (XDEF) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs. Year to date, VYM is up 16.16% versus a loss of 2.09% for XDEF.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -58.8% for VYM and -19.0% for XDEF. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VYM charges 0.04% per year while XDEF charges 0.35%. On a $10,000 position that is $4 vs $35 annually, a gap of $31 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VYM currently yields 2.86% against 1.57% for XDEF.
Holdings Overlap
VYM and XDEF share 0 holdings out of 593 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, VYM or XDEF?
VYM has an expense ratio of 0.04% while XDEF charges 0.35%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $31 per year of difference.
What is the holdings overlap between VYM and XDEF?
VYM and XDEF share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 593 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VYM or XDEF?
VYM yields 2.86% while XDEF yields 1.57%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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