DNL vs VXUS
WisdomTree Global ex-US Quality Growth 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DNL | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.42% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $505M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.32% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 202 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +12.66% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.98% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.19% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.35% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | WisdomTree Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 16, 2006 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DNL vs VXUS Performance
WisdomTree Global ex-US Quality Growth Fund (DNL) is a ETF from WisdomTree Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DNL returned +20.98% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, DNL is up 12.66% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, DNL compounded at +12.19% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +4.35% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs +3.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DNL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.4% 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 -46.9% for DNL 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 0.94. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DNL 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, DNL currently yields 1.32% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DNL and VXUS share 160 holdings out of 7911 unique holdings combined, representing a 14.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DNL or VXUS?
DNL 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, DNL or VXUS?
Over the past year DNL returned +20.98% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), DNL annualized +3.83% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DNL or VXUS?
DNL has been the more volatile fund at 16.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DNL -46.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DNL and VXUS?
DNL and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.94, 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 DNL and VXUS?
DNL and VXUS share 160 common holdings with a 14.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7911 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DNL or VXUS?
DNL yields 1.32% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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