DFIC vs VTI
Dimensional International Core Equity 2 ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DFIC delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFIC offers more diversification with 4,134 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFIC | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.22% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $15.5B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.37% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 4,134 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +12.38% | +12.74% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.75% | +20.66% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.21% | +20.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +11.52% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.9% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 23, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
DFIC vs VTI Performance
Dimensional International Core Equity 2 ETF (DFIC) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFIC returned +23.75% while VTI returned +20.66%. Year to date, DFIC is up 12.38% versus a gain of 12.74% for VTI.
Over three years, DFIC compounded at +20.21% per year against +20.69% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFIC has the edge at +13.04% annualized vs +8.06%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFIC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.9% 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 -24.4% for DFIC 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFIC charges 0.22% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $22 vs $3 annually, a gap of $19 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFIC currently yields 2.37% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFIC and VTI share 19 holdings out of 6751 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFIC or VTI?
DFIC has an expense ratio of 0.22% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $19 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFIC or VTI?
Over the past year DFIC returned +23.75% vs +20.66% for VTI, so DFIC leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFIC annualized +13.04% vs +8.06% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFIC or VTI?
DFIC has been the more volatile fund at 15.9% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DFIC -24.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFIC and VTI?
DFIC and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFIC and VTI?
DFIC and VTI share 19 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 6751 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFIC or VTI?
DFIC yields 2.37% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DFIC currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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