DFIC vs VXUS
Dimensional International Core Equity 2 ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFIC | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.22% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $15.5B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.37% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 4,134 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.89% | +13.91% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.21% | +25.90% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.05% | +19.76% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +8.82% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.9% | 15.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 23, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFIC vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional International Core Equity 2 ETF (DFIC) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFIC returned +23.21% while VXUS returned +25.90%. Year to date, DFIC is up 11.89% versus a gain of 13.91% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFIC compounded at +20.05% per year against +19.76% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFIC has the edge at +12.94% annualized vs +4.80%. 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 15.0% 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 -24.4% for DFIC 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 0.97. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFIC charges 0.22% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $22 vs $5 annually, a gap of $17 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFIC currently yields 2.37% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFIC and VXUS share 2315 holdings out of 9762 unique holdings combined, representing a 36.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFIC or VXUS?
DFIC has an expense ratio of 0.22% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $17 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFIC or VXUS?
Over the past year DFIC returned +23.21% vs +25.90% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFIC annualized +12.94% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFIC or VXUS?
DFIC has been the more volatile fund at 15.9% annualized versus 15.0% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DFIC -24.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFIC and VXUS?
DFIC and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.97, 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 DFIC and VXUS?
DFIC and VXUS share 2315 common holdings with a 36.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 9762 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFIC or VXUS?
DFIC yields 2.37% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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