DEEF vs VXUS
Xtrackers FTSE Developed ex US Multifactor 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 | DEEF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $57M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.38% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 1,244 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +14.39% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.75% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.02% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.25% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -40.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 24, 2015 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DEEF vs VXUS Performance
Xtrackers FTSE Developed ex US Multifactor ETF (DEEF) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DEEF returned +21.75% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, DEEF is up 14.39% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, DEEF compounded at +19.02% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.25% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, DEEF has the edge at +6.62% 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 15.0% for DEEF. 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 -40.6% for DEEF 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 0.93. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DEEF charges 0.24% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $5 annually, a gap of $19 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DEEF currently yields 3.38% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DEEF and VXUS share 991 holdings out of 8106 unique holdings combined, representing a 23.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DEEF or VXUS?
DEEF has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $19 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DEEF or VXUS?
Over the past year DEEF returned +21.75% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), DEEF annualized +6.62% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DEEF or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 15.0% for DEEF. Worst drawdown: DEEF -40.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DEEF and VXUS?
DEEF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.93, 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 DEEF and VXUS?
DEEF and VXUS share 991 common holdings with a 23.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8106 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DEEF or VXUS?
DEEF yields 3.38% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so DEEF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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