DFSI vs VYM
DFSI vs VYM
Dimensional International Sustainability Core 1 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFSI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.1B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.22% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 334 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +9.56% | +15.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.63% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.81% | +18.02% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -12.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 12, 2008 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFSI vs VYM Performance
Dimensional International Sustainability Core 1 ETF (DFSI) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSI returned +21.63% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, DFSI is up 9.56% versus a gain of 15.57% for VYM.
Over three years, DFSI compounded at +17.81% per year against +18.02% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFSI has the edge at +20.96% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 13.2% for DFSI. 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 -12.8% for DFSI 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSI charges 0.24% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $4 annually, a gap of $20 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSI currently yields 2.22% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFSI and VYM share 153 holdings out of 736 unique holdings combined, representing a 43.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in DFSI | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| JPM | 4.60% | 3.36% | 1.24% |
| XOM | 4.05% | 2.83% | 1.22% |
| JNJ | 2.40% | 2.62% | 0.22% |
| CVX | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| CSCO | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| UNH | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| MRK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| WFC | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| GS | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| VZ | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings DFSI shares with VYM Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFSI or VYM?
DFSI has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $20 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSI or VYM?
Over the past year DFSI returned +21.63% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFSI annualized +20.96% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSI or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.2% for DFSI. Worst drawdown: DFSI -12.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFSI and VYM?
DFSI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSI and VYM?
DFSI and VYM share 153 common holdings with a 43.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 736 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSI or VYM?
DFSI yields 2.22% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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