DHF vs VTI
DHF vs VTI
BNY Mellon High Yield Strategies Fund vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DHF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.71% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $194M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.75% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 318 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -0.60% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.05% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.72% | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.01% | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -89.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | BNY Mellon Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 29, 1998 | May 24, 2001 |
DHF vs VTI Performance
BNY Mellon High Yield Strategies Fund (DHF) is a ETF from BNY Mellon Investment Management and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DHF returned +0.05% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, DHF is down 0.60% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Over three years, DHF compounded at +10.72% per year against +21.12% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +1.01% and +12.37% respectively. Across the full 25-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs -4.80%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DHF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.1% compared with 15.3% for VTI. 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 -89.1% for DHF and -56.6% for VTI. 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 0.58. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DHF charges 1.71% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $171 vs $3 annually, a gap of $168 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DHF currently yields 7.75% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DHF and VTI share 0 holdings out of 3000 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, DHF or VTI?
DHF has an expense ratio of 1.71% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $168 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DHF or VTI?
Over the past year DHF returned +0.05% vs +24.16% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (25 years), DHF annualized -4.80% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DHF or VTI?
DHF has been the more volatile fund at 20.1% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DHF -89.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DHF and VTI?
DHF and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.58, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DHF and VTI?
DHF and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3000 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DHF or VTI?
DHF yields 7.75% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DHF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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