DFAR vs VXUS
DFAR vs VXUS
Dimensional US Real Estate 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFAR | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.19% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.8B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.69% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 130 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +16.75% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +17.89% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.56% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 23, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFAR vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional US Real Estate ETF (DFAR) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAR returned +17.89% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, DFAR is up 16.75% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFAR compounded at +10.56% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +3.92%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFAR has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.3% 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 -32.3% for DFAR 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFAR charges 0.19% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $19 vs $5 annually, a gap of $14 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAR currently yields 2.69% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFAR and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 7982 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFAR or VXUS?
DFAR has an expense ratio of 0.19% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $14 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAR or VXUS?
Over the past year DFAR returned +17.89% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFAR annualized +3.92% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAR or VXUS?
DFAR has been the more volatile fund at 18.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DFAR -32.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFAR and VXUS?
DFAR and VXUS 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 DFAR and VXUS?
DFAR and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7982 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAR or VXUS?
DFAR yields 2.69% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so DFAR currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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