DFSE vs VTI
Dimensional Emerging Markets Sustainability Core 1 ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DFSE delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFSE | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.41% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $582M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.89% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 4,274 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +13.80% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.93% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.88% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 1, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
DFSE vs VTI Performance
Dimensional Emerging Markets Sustainability Core 1 ETF (DFSE) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSE returned +25.93% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, DFSE is up 13.80% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, DFSE compounded at +18.88% per year against +21.17% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFSE has the edge at +20.81% annualized vs +8.13%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 15.0% for DFSE. 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 -19.8% for DFSE and -56.6% for VTI. 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 0.74. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSE charges 0.41% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $41 vs $3 annually, a gap of $38 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSE currently yields 1.89% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFSE and VTI share 1455 holdings out of 3187 unique holdings combined, representing a 65.3% weight overlap.
High overlap means holding both may not provide much additional diversification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFSE or VTI?
DFSE has an expense ratio of 0.41% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $38 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSE or VTI?
Over the past year DFSE returned +25.93% vs +23.31% for VTI, so DFSE leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFSE annualized +20.81% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSE or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 15.0% for DFSE. Worst drawdown: DFSE -19.8% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFSE and VTI?
DFSE and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.74, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSE and VTI?
DFSE and VTI share 1455 common holdings with a 65.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3187 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSE or VTI?
DFSE yields 1.89% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DFSE currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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