DFSU vs VYM
DFSU vs VYM
Dimensional US Sustainability Core 1 ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFSU offers more diversification with 1872 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFSU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.84% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1,883 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +12.07% | +15.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.07% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.40% | +18.02% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 1, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFSU vs VYM Performance
Dimensional US Sustainability Core 1 ETF (DFSU) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSU returned +22.07% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, DFSU is up 12.07% versus a gain of 15.57% for VYM.
Over three years, DFSU compounded at +19.40% per year against +18.02% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFSU has the edge at +20.77% 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 13.9% for DFSU. 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 -19.9% for DFSU 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSU charges 0.15% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $4 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSU currently yields 0.84% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFSU and VYM share 409 holdings out of 2021 unique holdings combined, representing a 34.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in DFSU | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| AVGO | 1.94% | 6.47% | 4.53% |
| JPM | 1.54% | 3.36% | 1.82% |
| JNJ | 1.09% | 2.62% | 1.53% |
| WMT | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ABBV | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| HD | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| PG | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| CAT | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| MRK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| KO | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings DFSU 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, DFSU or VYM?
DFSU has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSU or VYM?
Over the past year DFSU returned +22.07% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFSU annualized +20.77% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSU or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.9% for DFSU. Worst drawdown: DFSU -19.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFSU and VYM?
DFSU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSU and VYM?
DFSU and VYM share 409 common holdings with a 34.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2021 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSU or VYM?
DFSU yields 0.84% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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