DSL vs VYM
DSL vs VYM
DoubleLine Income Solutions Fund 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 | DSL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.20% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.3B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.46% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 512 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +3.44% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.18% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.77% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.03% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | DoubleLine Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 26, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DSL vs VYM Performance
DoubleLine Income Solutions Fund (DSL) is a ETF from DoubleLine Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DSL returned -0.18% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, DSL is up 3.44% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, DSL compounded at +6.77% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +1.03% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -1.79%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DSL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.7% compared with 14.6% for VYM. 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 -58.7% for DSL 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 0.66. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DSL charges 3.20% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $320 vs $4 annually, a gap of $316 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DSL currently yields 11.46% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DSL and VYM share 0 holdings out of 563 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, DSL or VYM?
DSL has an expense ratio of 3.20% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $316 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DSL or VYM?
Over the past year DSL returned -0.18% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), DSL annualized -1.79% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DSL or VYM?
DSL has been the more volatile fund at 15.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DSL -58.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DSL and VYM?
DSL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.66, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DSL and VYM?
DSL and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 563 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DSL or VYM?
DSL yields 11.46% while VYM yields 2.86%, so DSL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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