DDLS vs VXUS
WisdomTree Dynamic International SmallCap Equity Fund 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 | DDLS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.48% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $431M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.62% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 1,040 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +7.06% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.97% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.57% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.39% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | WisdomTree Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 7, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DDLS vs VXUS Performance
WisdomTree Dynamic International SmallCap Equity Fund (DDLS) is a ETF from WisdomTree Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DDLS returned +12.97% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, DDLS is up 7.06% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, DDLS compounded at +17.57% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +9.39% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, DDLS has the edge at +9.77% 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 13.5% for DDLS. 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 -36.8% for DDLS 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 0.90. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DDLS charges 0.48% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $48 vs $5 annually, a gap of $43 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DDLS currently yields 3.62% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DDLS and VXUS share 593 holdings out of 8211 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DDLS or VXUS?
DDLS has an expense ratio of 0.48% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $43 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DDLS or VXUS?
Over the past year DDLS returned +12.97% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), DDLS annualized +9.77% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DDLS or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.5% for DDLS. Worst drawdown: DDLS -36.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DDLS and VXUS?
DDLS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.90, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between DDLS and VXUS?
DDLS and VXUS share 593 common holdings with a 1.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8211 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DDLS or VXUS?
DDLS yields 3.62% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so DDLS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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