DFAT vs VXUS
Dimensional US Targeted Value ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. DFAT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFAT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.28% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $14.5B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.37% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1,283 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +20.75% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +34.15% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.69% | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.19% | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 1998 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFAT vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional US Targeted Value ETF (DFAT) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAT returned +34.15% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, DFAT is up 20.75% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFAT compounded at +15.69% per year against +19.53% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.19% and +9.03% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFAT has the edge at +10.83% annualized vs +4.83%. 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 15.1% 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 -26.1% for DFAT 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFAT charges 0.28% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $28 vs $5 annually, a gap of $23 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAT currently yields 1.37% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFAT and VXUS share 12 holdings out of 9116 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, DFAT or VXUS?
DFAT has an expense ratio of 0.28% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $23 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAT or VXUS?
Over the past year DFAT returned +34.15% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so DFAT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFAT annualized +10.83% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAT or VXUS?
DFAT has been the more volatile fund at 19.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DFAT -26.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFAT and VXUS?
DFAT and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFAT and VXUS?
DFAT and VXUS share 12 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 9116 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAT or VXUS?
DFAT yields 1.37% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.