The Dimensional International Small Cap Value ETF (NYSEARCA:DISV) sits in an unusual corner of the market: small foreign companies that trade cheaply and still send cash back to shareholders.
International small-cap value has become an interesting income corner of global equities, with two ETFs dominating: Avantis International Small Cap Value ETF (NYSEARCA:DISV) and the iShares International Developed Small Cap Value Factor ETF (NASDAQ:ISVL).
Dimensional International Small Cap Value ETF's market-cap weighted approach focuses on small, non-U.S. companies in developed markets, aiming for long-term capital appreciation but not ideal for income seekers. Here I compare DISV with other ETFs, both International and U.S.-only reveals sector allocation differences that can impact performance. I rate DISV a Hold; while it diversifies, U.S. equities remain the superior long-term choice for most investors due to better risk-return.