DFSV vs VXUS
Dimensional US Small Cap Value 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 | DFSV | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $8.4B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.35% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 31 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +19.76% | +13.91% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.70% | +25.90% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.21% | +19.76% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +8.82% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.2% | 15.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 23, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFSV vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional US Small Cap Value ETF (DFSV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFSV returned +24.70% while VXUS returned +25.90%. Year to date, DFSV is up 19.76% versus a gain of 13.91% for VXUS.
Over three years, DFSV compounded at +16.21% per year against +19.76% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFSV has the edge at +12.29% annualized vs +4.80%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFSV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.2% compared with 15.0% 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 -28.0% for DFSV 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSV charges 0.30% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $5 annually, a gap of $25 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSV currently yields 1.35% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFSV and VXUS share 16 holdings out of 8109 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFSV or VXUS?
DFSV has an expense ratio of 0.30% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $25 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSV or VXUS?
Over the past year DFSV returned +24.70% vs +25.90% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFSV annualized +12.29% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSV or VXUS?
DFSV has been the more volatile fund at 21.2% annualized versus 15.0% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DFSV -28.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFSV and VXUS?
DFSV and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSV and VXUS?
DFSV and VXUS share 16 common holdings with a 1.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8109 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSV or VXUS?
DFSV yields 1.35% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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