DBEF vs VTI
DBEF vs VTI
Xtrackers MSCI EAFE Hedged Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DBEF delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DBEF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $9.2B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.31% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 707 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +14.61% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.18% | +24.23% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.40% | +20.73% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.79% | +12.24% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 9, 2011 | May 24, 2001 |
DBEF vs VTI Performance
Xtrackers MSCI EAFE Hedged Equity ETF (DBEF) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DBEF returned +29.18% while VTI returned +24.23%. Year to date, DBEF is up 14.61% versus a gain of 13.57% for VTI.
Over three years, DBEF compounded at +19.40% per year against +20.73% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +13.79% and +12.24% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, DBEF has the edge at +10.46% annualized vs +8.12%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 12.5% for DBEF. 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 -32.5% for DBEF 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
DBEF charges 0.35% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $3 annually, a gap of $32 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DBEF currently yields 2.31% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DBEF and VTI share 2 holdings out of 3456 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DBEF or VTI?
DBEF has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $32 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DBEF or VTI?
Over the past year DBEF returned +29.18% vs +24.23% for VTI, so DBEF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), DBEF annualized +10.46% vs +8.12% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DBEF or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 12.5% for DBEF. Worst drawdown: DBEF -32.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DBEF and VTI?
DBEF 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 DBEF and VTI?
DBEF and VTI share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3456 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DBEF or VTI?
DBEF yields 2.31% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DBEF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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