DFAI vs VXUS
Dimensional International Core Equity Market 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 | DFAI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.18% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $18.3B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.30% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 3,697 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +13.36% | +14.72% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.66% | +26.79% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.62% | +19.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.51% | +9.16% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 17, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFAI vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional International Core Equity Market ETF (DFAI) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAI returned +24.66% while VXUS returned +26.79%. Year to date, DFAI is up 13.36% versus a gain of 14.72% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFAI compounded at +19.62% per year against +19.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +10.51% and +9.16% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, DFAI has the edge at +12.61% annualized vs +4.85%. 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 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 -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 0.97. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFAI charges 0.18% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $18 vs $5 annually, a gap of $13 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAI currently yields 2.30% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFAI and VXUS share 2290 holdings out of 9422 unique holdings combined, representing a 44.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFAI or VXUS?
DFAI has an expense ratio of 0.18% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $13 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAI or VXUS?
Over the past year DFAI returned +24.66% vs +26.79% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), DFAI annualized +12.61% vs +4.85% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.5% for DFAI. Worst drawdown: DFAI -27.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFAI and VXUS?
DFAI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.97, 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 DFAI and VXUS?
DFAI and VXUS share 2290 common holdings with a 44.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 9422 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAI or VXUS?
DFAI yields 2.30% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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