DMA vs VXUS
Destra Multi-Alternative Fund 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 | DMA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.69% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $80M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 13.39% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 181 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -6.70% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.28% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +24.13% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -38.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Destra Capital Investment LLC | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 13, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DMA vs VXUS Performance
Destra Multi-Alternative Fund (DMA) is a ETF from Destra Capital Investment LLC and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DMA returned +1.28% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, DMA is down 6.70% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, DMA compounded at +24.13% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, DMA has the edge at +4.99% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DMA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.4% 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 -38.9% for DMA 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 0.15. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DMA charges 3.69% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $369 vs $5 annually, a gap of $364 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DMA currently yields 13.39% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DMA and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7923 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in DMA | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ORCL | 0.31% | 0.00% | 0.31% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DMA or VXUS?
DMA has an expense ratio of 3.69% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $364 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DMA or VXUS?
Over the past year DMA returned +1.28% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DMA annualized +4.99% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DMA or VXUS?
DMA has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DMA -38.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DMA and VXUS?
DMA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.15, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DMA and VXUS?
DMA and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7923 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DMA or VXUS?
DMA yields 13.39% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so DMA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.