DFAI vs VTI
Dimensional International Core Equity Market ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DFAI delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFAI offers more diversification with 3759 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFAI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.18% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $17.2B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.35% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 3,919 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +14.02% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.24% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.81% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.58% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 17, 2020 | May 24, 2001 |
DFAI vs VTI Performance
Dimensional International Core Equity Market ETF (DFAI) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAI returned +25.24% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, DFAI is up 14.02% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, DFAI compounded at +19.81% per year against +21.27% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +10.58% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, DFAI has the edge at +12.84% annualized vs +8.14%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 14.5% for DFAI. 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 -27.4% for DFAI 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFAI charges 0.18% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $18 vs $3 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAI currently yields 2.35% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFAI and VTI share 19 holdings out of 6523 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFAI or VTI?
DFAI has an expense ratio of 0.18% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAI or VTI?
Over the past year DFAI returned +25.24% vs +22.19% for VTI, so DFAI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), DFAI annualized +12.84% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 14.5% for DFAI. Worst drawdown: DFAI -27.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFAI and VTI?
DFAI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFAI and VTI?
DFAI and VTI share 19 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 6523 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAI or VTI?
DFAI yields 2.35% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DFAI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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