DBEM vs VXUS
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Hedged Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. DBEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DBEM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.66% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $109M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.31% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 1,175 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +20.86% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +40.26% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.09% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.84% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -51.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 9, 2011 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DBEM vs VXUS Performance
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Hedged Equity ETF (DBEM) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DBEM returned +40.26% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, DBEM is up 20.86% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, DBEM compounded at +23.09% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +9.84% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% 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 15.1% for VXUS. 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 -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 0.54. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DBEM charges 0.66% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $66 vs $5 annually, a gap of $61 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DBEM currently yields 2.31% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DBEM and VXUS share 871 holdings out of 8152 unique holdings combined, representing a 19.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in DBEM | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2330:TW | 15.05% | 3.41% | 11.64% |
| 000660:KR | 5.60% | 0.90% | 4.70% |
| 0700:HK | 2.89% | 0.92% | 1.97% |
| 9988:HK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2454:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2308:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2317:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| RELIANCE:MB | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ICICIBANK:MB | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 402340:KR | Pro | Pro | Pro |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DBEM or VXUS?
DBEM has an expense ratio of 0.66% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $61 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DBEM or VXUS?
Over the past year DBEM returned +40.26% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so DBEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), DBEM annualized +3.78% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DBEM or VXUS?
DBEM has been the more volatile fund at 21.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DBEM -51.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DBEM and VXUS?
DBEM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.54, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DBEM and VXUS?
DBEM and VXUS share 871 common holdings with a 19.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8152 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DBEM or VXUS?
DBEM yields 2.31% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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