DFSV vs VTI
Dimensional US Small Cap Value ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DFSV delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFSV | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $8.6B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.35% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1,018 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +23.85% | +14.82% | |
| 1Y Return | +32.89% | +22.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.03% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.34% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.4% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.0% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 23, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
DFSV vs VTI Performance
Dimensional US Small Cap Value ETF (DFSV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSV returned +32.89% while VTI returned +22.43%. Year to date, DFSV is up 23.85% versus a gain of 14.82% for VTI.
Over three years, DFSV compounded at +17.03% per year against +21.93% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFSV has the edge at +13.28% annualized vs +8.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFSV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.4% compared with 15.4% for VTI. 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 -28.0% for DFSV 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSV charges 0.30% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $3 annually, a gap of $27 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSV currently yields 1.35% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DFSV and VTI share 737 holdings out of 3062 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFSV or VTI?
DFSV has an expense ratio of 0.30% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $27 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSV or VTI?
Over the past year DFSV returned +32.89% vs +22.43% for VTI, so DFSV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFSV annualized +13.28% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSV or VTI?
DFSV has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DFSV -28.0% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DFSV and VTI?
DFSV and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSV and VTI?
DFSV and VTI share 737 common holdings with a 0.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3062 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSV or VTI?
DFSV yields 1.35% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DFSV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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