Xtrackers MSCI EAFE Hedged Equity ETF (DBEF) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DBEF returned +27.94% while VXUS returned +26.65%. Year to date, DBEF is up 13.38% versus a gain of 11.69% for VXUS.

Over three years, DBEF compounded at +19.29% per year against +18.15% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +13.63% and +8.66% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, DBEF has the edge at +10.38% annualized vs +4.69%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.0% 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 -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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.

DBEF charges 0.35% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $5 annually, a gap of $30 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DBEF currently yields 2.31% against 2.60% for VXUS.