DFAW vs VXUS
DFAW vs VXUS
Dimensional World Equity ETF 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 | DFAW | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.23% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.60% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +26.85% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 26, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DFAW vs VXUS Performance
Dimensional World Equity ETF (DFAW) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAW returned +26.85% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, DFAW is up 15.60% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 12.1% for DFAW. 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 -16.9% for DFAW 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.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFAW charges 0.24% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $5 annually, a gap of $19 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAW currently yields 1.23% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DFAW and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7866 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, DFAW or VXUS?
DFAW has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $19 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAW or VXUS?
Over the past year DFAW returned +26.85% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), DFAW annualized +22.91% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAW or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 12.1% for DFAW. Worst drawdown: DFAW -16.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DFAW and VXUS?
DFAW and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFAW and VXUS?
DFAW and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7866 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAW or VXUS?
DFAW yields 1.23% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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