DFIS vs VXUS
Dimensional International Small Cap 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFIS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $5.7B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.04% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 3,519 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.89% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.79% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.31% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 23, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFIS vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional International Small Cap ETF (DFIS) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFIS returned +22.79% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, DFIS is up 11.89% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFIS compounded at +19.31% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFIS has the edge at +11.53% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFIS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.4% 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 -27.2% for DFIS 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 0.96. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFIS charges 0.39% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $5 annually, a gap of $34 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFIS currently yields 2.04% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFIS and VXUS share 1754 holdings out of 9545 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFIS or VXUS?
DFIS has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $34 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFIS or VXUS?
Over the past year DFIS returned +22.79% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFIS annualized +11.53% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFIS or VXUS?
DFIS has been the more volatile fund at 17.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DFIS -27.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFIS and VXUS?
DFIS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.96, 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 DFIS and VXUS?
DFIS and VXUS share 1754 common holdings with a 5.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 9545 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFIS or VXUS?
DFIS yields 2.04% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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