DFAT vs VTI
Dimensional US Targeted Value ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DFAT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFAT | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.28% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $14.5B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.37% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1,283 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +20.75% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +34.15% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.69% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.19% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.9% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 1998 | May 24, 2001 |
DFAT vs VTI Performance
Dimensional US Targeted Value ETF (DFAT) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAT returned +34.15% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, DFAT is up 20.75% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, DFAT compounded at +15.69% per year against +21.17% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +11.19% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFAT has the edge at +10.83% annualized vs +8.13%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFAT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.9% 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 DFAT 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
DFAT charges 0.28% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $28 vs $3 annually, a gap of $25 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAT currently yields 1.37% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFAT and VTI share 914 holdings out of 3136 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFAT or VTI?
DFAT has an expense ratio of 0.28% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $25 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAT or VTI?
Over the past year DFAT returned +34.15% vs +23.31% for VTI, so DFAT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFAT annualized +10.83% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAT or VTI?
DFAT has been the more volatile fund at 19.9% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DFAT -26.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFAT and VTI?
DFAT 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 DFAT and VTI?
DFAT and VTI share 914 common holdings with a 1.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3136 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAT or VTI?
DFAT yields 1.37% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DFAT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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