What are the main differences between DFAE and DFEM in terms of expense ratios and net assets?

DFAE has a lower expense ratio of 0.29% and net assets of $10.2 billion, while DFEM has a higher expense ratio of 0.39% and net assets of $9.7 billion. The difference in expense ratios is 0.10%, which can impact long-term returns. DFAE also has a longer track record with an inception date of December 2020 compared to DFEM's April 2022.

How do these ETFs track emerging markets?

Both DFAE and DFEM focus on diversified emerging markets, but specific index tracking information is not available for either fund. Generally, they aim to capture broad exposure to emerging market equities without tracking a single specific index.

How do I interpret the sector weight data for these ETFs?

Sector weight data is currently not available for either DFAE or DFEM. Therefore, it is difficult to assess how the funds allocate across different sectors. Investors typically rely on available data to understand sector exposure, which is missing here.

Which fund has more favorable holdings concentration?

DFEM holds two top emerging market bank stocks, IBN and HDB, which could offer more sector-specific exposure. However, DFAE has a more diversified top holdings, with relatively smaller weights. Without full holdings data, it is challenging to fully compare concentration.

What is the dividend yield difference between DFAE and DFEM?

DFEM has a slightly higher dividend yield of 1.81% compared to DFAE's 1.72%. For investors focused on income, DFEM may be more appealing, although the difference is minimal at 0.09 percentage points.

How do ETF distributions typically work?

ETF distributions are made based on the underlying holdings' dividends and other income. Both DFAE and DFEM pay dividends, with DFEM offering a slightly higher yield. These distributions can be reinvested or taken as cash by investors.

What type of investing goal is DFAE typically associated with?

DFAE is often associated with cost-effective exposure to emerging markets, appealing to investors who prioritise lower fees and a longer track record in managing emerging market risks.

What type of investing goal is DFEM typically associated with?

DFEM is typically associated with higher dividend yields, making it suitable for income-focused investors. Its higher expense ratio is offset by marginally better income returns.

What should beginners look for when comparing these ETFs?

Beginners should consider expense ratios, net assets, dividend yields, and track records. Understanding how these factors align with their financial goals can help determine the most suitable fund.

Are there any risks associated with investing in emerging market ETFs?

Emerging market ETFs carry higher volatility and currency risks compared to developed market funds. Investors should assess their risk tolerance and diversification strategy before investing.

What is the educational purpose of this FAQ?

This FAQ aims to provide factual information to help readers understand the differences between DFAE and DFEM. It is educational content and not financial advice.

Is this information considered financial advice?

No, this information is purely educational. It is designed to help readers understand ETF comparisons. Always consult a qualified financial advisor for personalised advice.

DFAE vs DFEM

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

Compare DFAE and DFEM. DFAE: 0.29% fee, $10.2bn assets, 1.72% yield, 100% emerging focus. DFEM: 0.39% fee, $9.7bn assets, 1.81% yield, 100% emerging focus. Review holdings, dividends and tracking. Educational content, not financial advice.

Compare DFAE and DFEM. DFAE: 0.29% fee, $10.2bn assets, 1.72% yield, 100% emerging focus. DFEM: 0.39% fee, $9.7bn assets, 1.81% yield, 100% emerging focus. Review holdings, dividends and tracking. Edu...

Fund Snapshot

Key Fund Metrics

DFAE

Metric

DFEM

0.29%

Expense Ratio

0.39%

1.72%

Dividend Yield

1.81%

$10.16B

Net Assets

$9.68B

6,234

Holdings

6,659

Dec 2, 2020

Inception Date

Apr 27, 2022

–

Index Tracked

–

Diversified Emerging Mkts

Fund Category

Diversified Emerging Mkts

DFAE costs about $10.00 less per year for every $10,000 invested.

Shared Top Holdings

Holding	DFAE	DFEM
IBNICICI Bank Limited	0.42%	0.40%

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Investment Analysis

DFAE

Pros

DFAE offers a lower expense ratio of 0.29 percent compared to DFEM.
The fund has a larger asset base of 10.2 billion dollars.
It has a longer track record with an inception date of December 2020.

Considerations

Dividend yield is slightly lower at 1.72 percent.
Sector weight data is not currently available for assessment.
Top holdings are relatively small, limiting concentration benefits.

DFEM

Pros

DFEM provides a marginally higher dividend yield of 1.81 percent.
The fund maintains substantial net assets of 9.7 billion dollars.
It holds two of the top emerging market bank stocks, IBN and HDB.

Considerations

Expense ratio is higher at 0.39 percent than DFAE.
Inception date is more recent, with less long-term performance history.
Sector weight data is not available for evaluation.

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About DFAE and DFEM

DFAE (DFAE)

The Dimensional Emerging Core Equity ETF (DFAE) offers investors broad exposure to the global emerging markets landscape. Launched in late 2020, this fund holds a substantial net asset base of approximately USD 10.16 billion and maintains a competitive expense ratio of 0.29%. With over 6,200 individual holdings, it provides extensive diversification across various sectors and countries within emerging economies. The fund currently yields an estimated 1.72% through dividends, although it is worth noting that dividends are not guaranteed and can fluctuate based on market conditions and company performance. Designed for those seeking to participate in the growth potential of developing nations, this ETF aims to capture core market returns rather than betting on specific sectors. Investors should remember that emerging markets can be more volatile than developed ones, and the value of investments can fall as well as rise.

DFEM (DFEM)

Dimensional Emerging Markets (DFEM) is an exchange-traded fund providing broad exposure to equities listed in emerging-market economies. It aims to give investors access to potential growth in countries such as China, India and Brazil via a diversified basket of companies across sectors. DFEM may use a research-driven, systematic construction method and can include factor tilts; specifics (index tracked, weighting and fees) should be checked in the fund’s prospectus. Emerging-market investing can offer attractive long-term returns but typically involves higher political, economic and currency risk, and greater volatility and liquidity constraints than developed markets. Market capitalisation for DFEM is not provided here. This summary is educational and not personal financial advice — consider your investment horizon, risk tolerance and consult an authorised adviser before investing.

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Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Banking On Emerging Market Wealth

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DFAE vs DFEM

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Pros

Considerations

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Pros

Considerations

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About DFAE and DFEM

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Fund Snapshot

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