DFSE vs VXUS
Dimensional Emerging Markets Sustainability Core 1 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 | DFSE | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.41% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $582M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.89% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 4,274 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +14.83% | +15.00% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.48% | +26.87% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.22% | +19.79% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 1, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFSE vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional Emerging Markets Sustainability Core 1 ETF (DFSE) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSE returned +25.48% while VXUS returned +26.87%. Year to date, DFSE is up 14.83% versus a gain of 15.00% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFSE compounded at +19.22% per year against +19.79% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFSE has the edge at +21.08% annualized vs +4.88%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFSE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 15.1% for VXUS. 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 -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 0.90. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSE charges 0.41% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $41 vs $5 annually, a gap of $36 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSE currently yields 1.89% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFSE and VXUS share 14 holdings out of 9706 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, DFSE or VXUS?
DFSE has an expense ratio of 0.41% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $36 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSE or VXUS?
Over the past year DFSE returned +25.48% vs +26.87% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFSE annualized +21.08% vs +4.88% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSE or VXUS?
DFSE has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DFSE -19.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFSE and VXUS?
DFSE and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.90, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSE and VXUS?
DFSE and VXUS share 14 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 9706 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSE or VXUS?
DFSE yields 1.89% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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