DFAS vs VTI
Dimensional US Small Cap ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DFAS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFAS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.26% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $15.3B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.96% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 2,102 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +19.26% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.14% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.45% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.83% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 15, 1998 | May 24, 2001 |
DFAS vs VTI Performance
Dimensional US Small Cap ETF (DFAS) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAS returned +31.14% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, DFAS is up 19.26% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, DFAS compounded at +15.45% per year against +21.17% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +8.83% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFAS has the edge at +8.60% annualized vs +8.13%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFAS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.1% compared with 15.3% for VTI. 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 -26.1% for DFAS 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFAS charges 0.26% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $26 vs $3 annually, a gap of $23 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAS currently yields 0.96% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFAS and VTI share 1504 holdings out of 3357 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFAS or VTI?
DFAS has an expense ratio of 0.26% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $23 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAS or VTI?
Over the past year DFAS returned +31.14% vs +23.31% for VTI, so DFAS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFAS annualized +8.60% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAS or VTI?
DFAS has been the more volatile fund at 19.1% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DFAS -26.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFAS and VTI?
DFAS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFAS and VTI?
DFAS and VTI share 1504 common holdings with a 2.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3357 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAS or VTI?
DFAS yields 0.96% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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