DFSB vs VXUS
DFSB vs VXUS
Dimensional Global Sustainability Fixed Income 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 | DFSB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $725M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.32% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 715 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +0.94% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.38% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.70% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -5.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 15, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFSB vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional Global Sustainability Fixed Income ETF (DFSB) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSB returned +2.38% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, DFSB is up 0.94% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFSB compounded at +4.70% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +4.53%. 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 5.6% for DFSB. 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 -5.2% for DFSB 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSB charges 0.24% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $5 annually, a gap of $19 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSB currently yields 4.32% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFSB and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8243 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, DFSB or VXUS?
DFSB has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $19 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSB or VXUS?
Over the past year DFSB returned +2.38% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFSB annualized +4.53% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSB or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 5.6% for DFSB. Worst drawdown: DFSB -5.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFSB and VXUS?
DFSB and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSB and VXUS?
DFSB and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8243 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSB or VXUS?
DFSB yields 4.32% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so DFSB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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