GAA vs VXUS
Cambria Global Asset Allocation ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GAA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.40% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $72M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.53% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 31 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +9.04% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.45% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.46% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.25% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Cambria Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 9, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GAA vs VXUS Performance
Cambria Global Asset Allocation ETF (GAA) is a ETF from Cambria Investment Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GAA returned +16.45% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, GAA is up 9.04% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, GAA compounded at +12.46% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +6.25% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, GAA has the edge at +6.51% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 9.5% for GAA. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -26.6% for GAA and -39.9% for VXUS. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.92. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GAA charges 0.40% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $40 vs $5 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GAA currently yields 3.53% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GAA and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7891 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GAA or VXUS?
GAA has an expense ratio of 0.40% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GAA or VXUS?
Over the past year GAA returned +16.45% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), GAA annualized +6.51% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GAA or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 9.5% for GAA. Worst drawdown: GAA -26.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GAA and VXUS?
GAA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.92, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between GAA and VXUS?
GAA and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7891 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GAA or VXUS?
GAA yields 3.53% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so GAA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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