
This fund utilizes a market-capitalization weighted methodology to invest in a broad and diverse selection of readily tradable securities from U.S. small-cap companies, identified by the Advisor as value stocks. This approach means that companies with higher market capitalizations generally hold a more substantial proportion within the portfolio compared to those with lower market capitalizations. Under normal operating conditions, and as a flexible guideline, the portfolio aims to commit at least 80% of its net assets to equities of small-capitalization U.S. firms.
Is DFSV's expense ratio expensive, average, or a steal for its category?
Pro reveals the verdict on a 5-tier spectrum calibrated against ICI 2025 industry averages, with strategy-aware bands so the comparison is meaningful.

DFA US Small Cap Value ETF earns a "Buy" rating for its diversified, value-and-profitability strategy and outperformance versus the Russell 2000 since 2022. DFSV's portfolio emphasizes financials (28%), especially banks (19%), with minimal company-specific risk; top 10 holdings comprise just 7.7% of assets. While DFSV is compelling, AVUV offers slightly better returns, lower fees, and higher liquidity; both funds' main risk is heavy financials sector exposure.

Small-cap equities are winning out against their large-cap counterparts in a classic David versus Goliath ETF battle. After years of mega-cap technology dominance, small-cap equities have delivered investors a historic first half of 2026.

DFA Dimensional US Small Cap ETF (DFAS) receives a 'Hold' rating due to underperformance versus DFSV and other small-cap peers. DFAS offers broad diversification and systematic factor tilts but lags DFSV in valuation, dividend yield, and long-term returns. DFAS's modest overweight to financials may offer some resilience in a rising-rate environment, but better small-cap options exist.

The DFA Dimensional US Small Cap Value ETF (DFSV) earns a 'Buy' rating for its active management, attractive valuation, and sector tilt. DFSV's portfolio emphasizes value and profitability, offering broad diversification with over 1,000 holdings and a 27.25% financials sector allocation. Valuation metrics are compelling: P/E of 11.43x, P/B of 1.22x, and expense ratio of 0.30%, making DFSV cost-effective among active peers.
