DISV vs VXUS
Dimensional International Small Cap Value ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. DISV delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DISV | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.42% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $5.3B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.45% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 1,628 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.90% | +14.51% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.46% | +26.56% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +25.05% | +19.95% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +8.87% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.5% | 15.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 23, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DISV vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional International Small Cap Value ETF (DISV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DISV returned +30.46% while VXUS returned +26.56%. Year to date, DISV is up 15.90% versus a gain of 14.51% for VXUS.
Over three years, DISV compounded at +25.05% per year against +19.95% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, DISV has the edge at +16.47% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DISV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.5% 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 -26.8% for DISV 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 0.92. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DISV charges 0.42% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $42 vs $5 annually, a gap of $37 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DISV currently yields 2.45% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DISV and VXUS share 849 holdings out of 8843 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DISV or VXUS?
DISV has an expense ratio of 0.42% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $37 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DISV or VXUS?
Over the past year DISV returned +30.46% vs +26.56% for VXUS, so DISV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DISV annualized +16.47% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DISV or VXUS?
DISV has been the more volatile fund at 17.5% annualized versus 15.0% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DISV -26.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DISV and VXUS?
DISV and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.92, 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 DISV and VXUS?
DISV and VXUS share 849 common holdings with a 2.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8843 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DISV or VXUS?
DISV yields 2.45% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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