DFCF vs VTI
Dimensional Core Fixed Income ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFCF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.17% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $10.9B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.34% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1,618 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +0.21% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.74% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.80% | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 6.9% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 15, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
DFCF vs VTI Performance
Dimensional Core Fixed Income ETF (DFCF) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFCF returned +2.74% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, DFCF is up 0.21% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Over three years, DFCF compounded at +4.80% per year against +21.12% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs +0.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 6.9% for DFCF. 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 -19.6% for DFCF 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFCF charges 0.17% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $17 vs $3 annually, a gap of $14 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFCF currently yields 4.34% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFCF and VTI share 0 holdings out of 4274 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, DFCF or VTI?
DFCF has an expense ratio of 0.17% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $14 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFCF or VTI?
Over the past year DFCF returned +2.74% vs +24.16% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFCF annualized +0.07% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFCF or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 6.9% for DFCF. Worst drawdown: DFCF -19.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFCF and VTI?
DFCF and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFCF and VTI?
DFCF and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 4274 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFCF or VTI?
DFCF yields 4.34% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DFCF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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