DFNM vs VXUS
Dimensional National Municipal Bond 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 | DFNM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.17% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.2B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.93% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1,129 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +0.88% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.91% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.15% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -7.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Tax Preferred | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 15, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFNM vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional National Municipal Bond ETF (DFNM) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFNM returned +3.91% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, DFNM is up 0.88% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFNM compounded at +3.15% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs +1.30%. 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 4.1% for DFNM. 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 -7.0% for DFNM 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFNM charges 0.17% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $17 vs $5 annually, a gap of $12 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFNM currently yields 2.93% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFNM and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8051 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, DFNM or VXUS?
DFNM has an expense ratio of 0.17% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $12 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFNM or VXUS?
Over the past year DFNM returned +3.91% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFNM annualized +1.30% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFNM or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 4.1% for DFNM. Worst drawdown: DFNM -7.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFNM and VXUS?
DFNM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFNM and VXUS?
DFNM and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8051 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFNM or VXUS?
DFNM yields 2.93% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so DFNM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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