DFSD vs VXUS
DFSD vs VXUS
Dimensional Short-Duration 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 | DFSD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.16% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $7.1B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.18% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1,500 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +1.02% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.07% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.19% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -8.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 15, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFSD vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional Short-Duration Fixed Income ETF (DFSD) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSD returned +3.07% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, DFSD is up 1.02% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFSD compounded at +5.19% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +2.53%. 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 2.7% for DFSD. 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 -8.4% for DFSD 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 0.73. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSD charges 0.16% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $16 vs $5 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSD currently yields 4.18% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFSD and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 8984 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, DFSD or VXUS?
DFSD has an expense ratio of 0.16% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSD or VXUS?
Over the past year DFSD returned +3.07% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFSD annualized +2.53% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSD or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 2.7% for DFSD. Worst drawdown: DFSD -8.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFSD and VXUS?
DFSD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.73, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSD and VXUS?
DFSD and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8984 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSD or VXUS?
DFSD yields 4.18% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so DFSD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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