Core Insights - International equities performed strongly last year, driven by foreign firms across various regions, but replicating this success may be challenging for investors [1] - Small-cap international equities, such as those offered by the Avantis International Small Cap Equity ETF (AVDS), present opportunities for greater upside and growth potential [1][4] Performance Comparison - AVDS significantly outperformed the S&P 500, returning 47.4% compared to the S&P 500's 21.2% over the past year [2] - AVDS also surpassed other international equities strategies, including the WisdomTree True Developed International Fund (DOL), which returned 42.5% [2] Investment Strategy - The Avantis International Small Cap Value ETF (AVDV) focuses on value-oriented small-cap firms and has attracted over $5 billion in investments while delivering a return of 58.8% [3] - Smaller firms are believed to offer greater growth potential, especially when selected through fundamental analysis, which may enhance their resilience during uncertain times [4]