DFEV vs VXUS
Dimensional Emerging Markets Value ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. DFEV delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFEV | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.43% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.0B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.04% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 3,595 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +20.83% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +37.99% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.29% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -18.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 26, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFEV vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional Emerging Markets Value ETF (DFEV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFEV returned +37.99% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, DFEV is up 20.83% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFEV compounded at +22.29% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFEV has the edge at +15.99% annualized vs +4.86%. 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 15.1% 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 -18.5% for DFEV 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFEV charges 0.43% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $43 vs $5 annually, a gap of $38 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFEV currently yields 2.04% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFEV and VXUS share 1748 holdings out of 9611 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFEV or VXUS?
DFEV has an expense ratio of 0.43% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $38 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFEV or VXUS?
Over the past year DFEV returned +37.99% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so DFEV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFEV annualized +15.99% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFEV or VXUS?
DFEV has been the more volatile fund at 16.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DFEV -18.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFEV and VXUS?
DFEV and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFEV and VXUS?
DFEV and VXUS share 1748 common holdings with a 7.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 9611 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFEV or VXUS?
DFEV yields 2.04% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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