DFND vs VXUS
Siren DIVCON Dividend Defender 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 | DFND | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.75% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $9M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.95% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 78 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +6.97% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.06% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.78% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.37% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | SRN Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 14, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFND vs VXUS Performance
Siren DIVCON Dividend Defender ETF (DFND) is a ETF from SRN Advisors and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFND returned +0.06% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, DFND is up 6.97% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFND compounded at +8.78% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +4.37% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, DFND has the edge at +6.80% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 10.8% for DFND. 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 -22.6% for DFND 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 0.50. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFND charges 1.75% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $175 vs $5 annually, a gap of $170 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFND currently yields 0.95% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFND or VXUS?
DFND has an expense ratio of 1.75% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $170 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFND or VXUS?
Over the past year DFND returned +0.06% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), DFND annualized +6.80% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFND or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 10.8% for DFND. Worst drawdown: DFND -22.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFND and VXUS?
DFND and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.50, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFND or VXUS?
DFND yields 0.95% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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