Dimensional US Targeted Value ETF (DFAT)
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The Small-Cap Value ETF Built on 50 Years of Academic Research Is Beating The S&P 500 Now
Yahoo Finance· 2026-03-06 15:59
Core Insights - Dimensional US Targeted Value ETF (DFAT) employs a rules-based, academically driven methodology to target small-cap stocks with high value and profitability metrics, distinguishing itself from typical small-cap value ETFs [2][3] Investment Strategy - DFAT focuses on U.S. small-cap stocks that exhibit low price-to-book ratios and strong earnings, filtering out unprofitable companies to enhance potential returns [3] - The fund's strategy is based on the historical outperformance of small, cheap, and profitable companies, although this factor premium can be cyclical and may not always be present [4] Portfolio Composition - The portfolio is heavily weighted in financials, comprising nearly 28%, with significant representation from regional banks and insurance companies, while industrials and consumer discretionary sectors account for another 30% [4] - The current financial positioning is supported by a Fed funds rate of 3.75% and a yield curve slope of 0.55% [4] Performance Metrics - Over the past year, DFAT achieved a return of 25.58%, underperforming the iShares Russell 2000 Value ETF (IWN), which gained 29.82% [5][6] - In a five-year period, DFAT returned 51.8%, outperforming IWN's 38.76% and the broader Russell 2000's 20.23%, indicating that the dual screening for value and profitability has been beneficial over the long term [6]