DFEV vs VTI
Dimensional Emerging Markets Value ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DFEV delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFEV offers more diversification with 3498 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFEV | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.43% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $2.0B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.04% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 3,595 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +20.83% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +37.99% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.29% | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.7% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -18.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 26, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
DFEV vs VTI Performance
Dimensional Emerging Markets Value ETF (DFEV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFEV returned +37.99% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, DFEV is up 20.83% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Over three years, DFEV compounded at +22.29% per year against +21.12% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFEV has the edge at +15.99% annualized vs +8.14%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFEV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.7% 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 -18.5% for DFEV 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFEV charges 0.43% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $43 vs $3 annually, a gap of $40 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFEV currently yields 2.04% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFEV and VTI share 0 holdings out of 6281 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, DFEV or VTI?
DFEV has an expense ratio of 0.43% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $40 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFEV or VTI?
Over the past year DFEV returned +37.99% vs +24.16% for VTI, so DFEV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFEV annualized +15.99% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFEV or VTI?
DFEV has been the more volatile fund at 16.7% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DFEV -18.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFEV and VTI?
DFEV and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFEV and VTI?
DFEV and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 6281 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFEV or VTI?
DFEV yields 2.04% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DFEV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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