DSU vs VYM
DSU vs VYM
Blackrock Debt Strategies Fund Inc. vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. DSU offers more diversification with 898 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DSU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.72% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $619M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 12.34% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1,281 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.84% | +15.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.36% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.22% | +18.02% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.44% | +12.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -84.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | BlackRock, Inc. (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 27, 1998 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DSU vs VYM Performance
Blackrock Debt Strategies Fund Inc. (DSU) is a ETF from BlackRock, Inc. (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DSU returned +0.36% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, DSU is down 0.84% versus a gain of 15.57% for VYM.
Over three years, DSU compounded at +9.22% per year against +18.02% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +6.44% and +12.71% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -2.25%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DSU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.0% 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 -84.1% for DSU 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 0.57. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DSU charges 1.72% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $172 vs $4 annually, a gap of $168 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DSU currently yields 12.34% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DSU and VYM share 1 holdings out of 1455 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in DSU | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| AFG | 0.00% | 0.04% | 0.04% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DSU or VYM?
DSU has an expense ratio of 1.72% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $168 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DSU or VYM?
Over the past year DSU returned +0.36% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), DSU annualized -2.25% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DSU or VYM?
DSU has been the more volatile fund at 18.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DSU -84.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DSU and VYM?
DSU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.57, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DSU and VYM?
DSU and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1455 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DSU or VYM?
DSU yields 12.34% while VYM yields 2.86%, so DSU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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