DFAW vs VTI
Dimensional World Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DFAW delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFAW | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.23% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +16.31% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.64% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.02% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.1% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 26, 2023 | May 24, 2001 |
DFAW vs VTI Performance
Dimensional World Equity ETF (DFAW) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAW returned +24.64% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, DFAW is up 16.31% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, DFAW compounded at +23.02% per year against +21.51% for VTI. Across the full 3-year window we track, DFAW has the edge at +23.02% annualized vs +8.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% compared with 12.1% for DFAW. 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 -16.9% for DFAW 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 0.95. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFAW charges 0.24% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $3 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAW currently yields 1.23% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFAW and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2788 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFAW or VTI?
DFAW has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAW or VTI?
Over the past year DFAW returned +24.64% vs +22.39% for VTI, so DFAW leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), DFAW annualized +23.02% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAW or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 12.1% for DFAW. Worst drawdown: DFAW -16.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFAW and VTI?
DFAW and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.95, 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 DFAW and VTI?
DFAW and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2788 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAW or VTI?
DFAW yields 1.23% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DFAW currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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