What are the key differences in fees and fund size between AVDE and DFIV?

AVDE has a lower expense ratio of 0.23% compared to DFIV's 0.27%, representing a 0.04 percentage point difference. However, DFIV manages larger net assets of $22.2 billion versus AVDE's $19.1 billion. While AVDE is slightly cheaper, DFIV has a longer track record starting in 1999. Investors should consider that small fee differences may impact returns over extended periods, but fund size can also influence liquidity and operational efficiency.

How do the investment objectives of these funds differ?

AVDE is a Foreign Large Blend ETF, meaning it includes a mix of growth and value stocks in developed international markets. DFIV is a Foreign Large Value ETF, specifically targeting undervalued companies. Both funds focus on large-cap equities outside the US. The blend strategy of AVDE offers broader market representation, while DFIV's value strategy aims to capitalise on price discrepancies, potentially leading to different performance patterns across various market environments.

Are these funds actively managed or passive index trackers?

Neither fund tracks a traditional index, as both are actively managed. AVDE by Avantis and DFIV by Dimensional utilise systematic investment processes. Avantis focuses on quantitative signals for value and profitability, while Dimensional employs its proprietary value and profitability models. Unlike passive ETFs that mirror an index, these funds rely on manager discretion and research to select holdings, aiming to outperform their respective benchmarks through disciplined, evidence-based strategies.

How much do the holdings overlap between the two ETFs?

There is limited overlap in the top holdings between AVDE and DFIV. Only Shell (SHEL) and BP are listed as shared top-10 holdings for both funds. For example, SHEL is the top holding for DFIV at 3.34%, but appears lower in AVDE's list. AVDE also includes companies like ASML, BBVA, and BHP which are not found in DFIV's provided top holdings. This low overlap reflects their distinct construction methodologies.

What is the difference in dividend yields between these funds?

AVDE currently reports a dividend yield of 2.74%, which is higher than DFIV's 2.57%. The 0.17 percentage point difference suggests AVDE may generate more cash flow relative to its share price at present. Yield is influenced by the specific stocks held; a blend strategy like AVDE might hold more dividend-paying firms compared to a strict value strategy. Investors should note that yields fluctuate and past performance does not guarantee future distributions.

Which types of investment goals might suit these funds?

AVDE, being a Foreign Large Blend fund, may suit investors seeking diversified exposure to the overall international large-cap market, balancing growth and value characteristics. DFIV, a Foreign Large Value fund, may align with investors who prefer a targeted value strategy, potentially accepting higher volatility for the possibility of excess returns from undervalued companies. Neither fund is inherently superior; the choice depends on whether one prioritises broader market representation or a specific factor tilt.

How does the inception date affect the history of each fund?

DFIV was launched on April 16, 1999, giving it over 27 years of performance history. AVDE was launched on September 24, 2019, making it a much newer fund with roughly 7 years of history. The longer history of DFIV allows investors to observe how its strategy has performed through various economic cycles, whereas AVDE has a shorter track record to evaluate. Both are currently available in the market.

Do these funds track any specific market indices?

According to the provided data, neither AVDE nor DFIV tracks a specific index. The 'Index tracked' field for both funds is listed as 'not available'. This is consistent with their nature as actively managed ETFs rather than passive index funds. Consequently, their holdings and performance are determined by the investment team's methodology rather than replicating a benchmark index like the MSCI World.

What information is missing regarding sector allocation for these ETFs?

The sector weights for both AVDE and DFIV are listed as 'not available' in the current data set. Without this information, investors cannot directly compare the industry diversification of the two funds. For example, we do not know the exact percentage allocated to Technology, Energy, or Financials for either fund. This lack of data makes it difficult to assess potential concentration risks by sector using only these figures.

How should an investor interpret the top holdings lists?

The top holdings lists provide a snapshot of the largest positions. AVDE holds ASML as its largest position at 1.27%, followed by SHEL at 0.89%. In contrast, DFIV has a much larger weighting to SHEL at 3.34%, with BP as its only other listed top holding in the provided data. These lists help identify significant exposures, but they do not represent the entire portfolio, and weights change over time as managers adjust holdings.

AVDE vs DFIV

Two funds, one decision: we compare cost, performance and what each ETF actually holds in September 2026.

This page compares Avantis International Equity ETF (AVDE) and Dimensional International Value ETF (DFIV), examining fees, holdings, dividends and how each fund tracks its market. AVDE charges 0.23% and DFIV 0.27%; both focus on foreign large-cap equities, with category distinctions noted. Educational content, not financial advice.

Fund Snapshot

Key Fund Metrics

AVDE

Metric

DFIV

0.23%

Expense Ratio

0.27%

2.74%

Dividend Yield

2.57%

$19.06B

Net Assets

$22.16B

3,336

Holdings

609

Sep 24, 2019

Inception Date

Apr 16, 1999

–

Index Tracked

–

Foreign Large Blend

Fund Category

Foreign Large Value

AVDE costs about $4.00 less per year for every $10,000 invested.

Shared Top Holdings

Holding	AVDE	DFIV
SHELShell plc	0.89%	3.34%
BPBP p.l.c.	0.50%	0.98%

Discover More Comparisons

AVDE vs AVDV

Compare AVDE and AVDV on expense ratios, yields, and holdings. AVDE costs 0.23% with 2.74% yield; AVDV costs 0.36% with 3.07% yield. See international focus.

AVDE vs VXUS

Compare AVDE and VXUS international equity ETFs. Analyze expense ratios, dividend yields, top holdings, and tracking differences between the two funds.

AVDE vs AVNM

Compare AVDE and AVNM. Review expense ratios, dividend yields, net assets, and top holdings for these Avantis international equity ETFs to understand key.

Investment Analysis

AVDE

Pros

]
,
,

Considerations

]
,
,

DFIV

Pros

]
,
,

Considerations

]
,
,

About AVDE and DFIV

AVDE (AVDE)

The Avantis International Equity ETF (AVDE) is an exchange-traded fund that aims to provide investors with access to quality companies located outside the United States. With an inception date of September 24, 2019, this fund has grown significantly, managing net assets of USD 19.06 billion. It boasts a broad portfolio of 3,336 holdings, diversified across various regions. Operating with a competitive expense ratio of 0.23%, AVDE is categorised as a Foreign Large Blend fund. Currently, it offers a dividend yield of 2.74%, appealing to investors seeking international diversification and potential income. The fund's strategy focuses on identifying companies with strong fundamentals, offering exposure to global markets beyond the US.

DFIV (DFIV)

The Dimensional International Value ETF (DFIV) offers investors exposure to developed and emerging markets outside the United States and Canada. This fund focuses on companies in international markets that appear to be trading at lower valuations relative to their peers, often referred to as 'value' stocks. By investing in a diversified basket of hundreds of holdings, DFIV aims to capture the potential long-term returns associated with the value investment style while spreading risk across various sectors and regions. It provides a way to diversify a portfolio beyond domestic assets. However, international investing carries unique risks, including currency fluctuations and geopolitical events. The fund’s expense ratio is moderate, and it may distribute income. As with any investment, values can rise and fall, and past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Buy AVDE or DFIV in Nemo

🆓

Zero Commission

Trade stocks, ETFs, and more with zero commission. Keep more of your returns.

🔒

Trusted & Regulated

Part of Exinity Group 2015, serving over a million customers globally.

💰

6% Interest on Cash

Earn 6% AER on uninvested cash with daily interest payments.

AVDE vs DFIV

Fund Snapshot