DBEF vs VXUS
Xtrackers MSCI EAFE Hedged Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DBEF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $9.5B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.28% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 691 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.13% | +15.37% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.49% | +26.20% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.73% | +20.32% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.90% | +9.61% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 9, 2011 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DBEF vs VXUS Performance
Xtrackers MSCI EAFE Hedged Equity ETF (DBEF) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DBEF returned +25.49% while VXUS returned +26.20%. Year to date, DBEF is up 15.13% versus a gain of 15.37% for VXUS.
Over three years, DBEF compounded at +19.73% per year against +20.32% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +13.90% and +9.61% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, DBEF has the edge at +10.45% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 12.5% for DBEF. 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 -32.5% for DBEF and -39.9% for VXUS. 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DBEF charges 0.35% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $5 annually, a gap of $30 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DBEF currently yields 2.28% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DBEF and VXUS share 499 holdings out of 8045 unique holdings combined, representing a 35.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DBEF or VXUS?
DBEF has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $30 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DBEF or VXUS?
Over the past year DBEF returned +25.49% vs +26.20% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), DBEF annualized +10.45% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DBEF or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 12.5% for DBEF. Worst drawdown: DBEF -32.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DBEF and VXUS?
DBEF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DBEF and VXUS?
DBEF and VXUS share 499 common holdings with a 35.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8045 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DBEF or VXUS?
DBEF yields 2.28% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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