DFSI vs VXUS
Dimensional International 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFSI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.2B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.18% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 334 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.30% | +14.56% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.84% | +25.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.91% | +20.38% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.32% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -12.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 12, 2008 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFSI vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional International Sustainability Core 1 ETF (DFSI) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSI returned +19.84% while VXUS returned +25.24%. Year to date, DFSI is up 11.30% versus a gain of 14.56% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFSI compounded at +19.91% per year against +20.38% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFSI has the edge at +21.13% annualized vs +4.84%. 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 13.3% for DFSI. 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 -12.8% for DFSI 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 0.96. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSI 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, DFSI currently yields 2.18% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFSI and VXUS share 1380 holdings out of 9219 unique holdings combined, representing a 25.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFSI or VXUS?
DFSI 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, DFSI or VXUS?
Over the past year DFSI returned +19.84% vs +25.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFSI annualized +21.13% vs +4.84% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.3% for DFSI. Worst drawdown: DFSI -12.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFSI and VXUS?
DFSI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.96, 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 DFSI and VXUS?
DFSI and VXUS share 1380 common holdings with a 25.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 9219 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSI or VXUS?
DFSI yields 2.18% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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