GAB vs VTI
Gabelli Equity Trust vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GAB | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.50% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $2.4B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 10.21% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 682 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -2.96% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.74% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.06% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.89% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -83.0% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 21, 1986 | May 24, 2001 |
GAB vs VTI Performance
Gabelli Equity Trust (GAB) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GAB returned +3.74% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, GAB is down 2.96% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, GAB compounded at +13.06% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +6.89% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 25-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.07% annualized vs +0.46%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GAB has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.1% compared with 15.3% for VTI. 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 -83.0% for GAB and -56.6% for VTI. 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 0.80. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GAB charges 1.50% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $150 vs $3 annually, a gap of $147 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GAB currently yields 10.21% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GAB and VTI share 376 holdings out of 3066 unique holdings combined, representing a 18.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GAB or VTI?
GAB has an expense ratio of 1.50% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $147 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GAB or VTI?
Over the past year GAB returned +3.74% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (25 years), GAB annualized +0.46% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GAB or VTI?
GAB has been the more volatile fund at 20.1% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: GAB -83.0% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GAB and VTI?
GAB and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GAB and VTI?
GAB and VTI share 376 common holdings with a 18.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3066 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GAB or VTI?
GAB yields 10.21% while VTI yields 1.07%, so GAB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.