DFIS vs VTI
Dimensional International Small Cap ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DFIS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFIS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $6.0B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.99% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 3,500 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +13.22% | +13.12% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.72% | +21.07% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.90% | +20.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +11.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 23, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
DFIS vs VTI Performance
Dimensional International Small Cap ETF (DFIS) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFIS returned +23.72% while VTI returned +21.07%. Year to date, DFIS is up 13.22% versus a gain of 13.12% for VTI.
Over three years, DFIS compounded at +19.90% per year against +20.54% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFIS has the edge at +11.67% annualized vs +8.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFIS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.5% 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 -27.2% for DFIS 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
DFIS charges 0.39% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $3 annually, a gap of $36 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFIS currently yields 1.99% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFIS and VTI share 15 holdings out of 6187 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFIS or VTI?
DFIS has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $36 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFIS or VTI?
Over the past year DFIS returned +23.72% vs +21.07% for VTI, so DFIS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFIS annualized +11.67% vs +8.08% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFIS or VTI?
DFIS has been the more volatile fund at 17.5% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DFIS -27.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFIS and VTI?
DFIS 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 DFIS and VTI?
DFIS and VTI share 15 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 6187 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFIS or VTI?
DFIS yields 1.99% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DFIS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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