DFIP vs VTI
Dimensional Inflation-Protected Securities 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 | DFIP | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.11% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.1B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.64% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 21 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +0.58% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.53% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.26% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 6.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -15.0% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 15, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
DFIP vs VTI Performance
Dimensional Inflation-Protected Securities ETF (DFIP) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFIP returned +1.53% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, DFIP is up 0.58% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, DFIP compounded at +4.26% per year against +21.17% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +0.05%. 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 6.8% for DFIP. 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 -15.0% for DFIP 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFIP charges 0.11% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $11 vs $3 annually, a gap of $8 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFIP currently yields 4.64% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFIP and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2802 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, DFIP or VTI?
DFIP has an expense ratio of 0.11% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $8 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFIP or VTI?
Over the past year DFIP returned +1.53% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFIP annualized +0.05% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFIP or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 6.8% for DFIP. Worst drawdown: DFIP -15.0% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFIP and VTI?
DFIP and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFIP and VTI?
DFIP and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2802 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFIP or VTI?
DFIP yields 4.64% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DFIP currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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