DBEM vs VTI
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Hedged Equity ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DBEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DBEM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.66% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $109M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.31% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1,175 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +20.86% | +14.82% | |
| 1Y Return | +40.26% | +22.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.09% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.84% | +12.34% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.7% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -51.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 9, 2011 | May 24, 2001 |
DBEM vs VTI Performance
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Hedged Equity ETF (DBEM) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DBEM returned +40.26% while VTI returned +22.43%. Year to date, DBEM is up 20.86% versus a gain of 14.82% for VTI.
Over three years, DBEM compounded at +23.09% per year against +21.93% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +9.84% and +12.34% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs +3.78%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DBEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.7% compared with 15.4% 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 -51.7% for DBEM 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 0.43. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DBEM charges 0.66% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $66 vs $3 annually, a gap of $63 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DBEM currently yields 2.31% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DBEM and VTI share 2 holdings out of 3939 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, DBEM or VTI?
DBEM has an expense ratio of 0.66% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $63 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DBEM or VTI?
Over the past year DBEM returned +40.26% vs +22.43% for VTI, so DBEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), DBEM annualized +3.78% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DBEM or VTI?
DBEM has been the more volatile fund at 21.7% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DBEM -51.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DBEM and VTI?
DBEM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.43, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DBEM and VTI?
DBEM and VTI share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3939 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DBEM or VTI?
DBEM yields 2.31% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DBEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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