GAB vs VXUS
Gabelli Equity Trust 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 | GAB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.4B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 10.10% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 682 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -0.71% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.22% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.01% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.23% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -83.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 21, 1986 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GAB vs VXUS Performance
Gabelli Equity Trust (GAB) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GAB returned +7.22% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, GAB is down 0.71% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, GAB compounded at +13.01% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +7.23% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +0.54%. 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 15.1% for VXUS. 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 -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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GAB charges 1.50% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $150 vs $5 annually, a gap of $145 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GAB currently yields 10.10% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GAB and VXUS share 107 holdings out of 8409 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GAB or VXUS?
GAB has an expense ratio of 1.50% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $145 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GAB or VXUS?
Over the past year GAB returned +7.22% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GAB annualized +0.54% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GAB or VXUS?
GAB has been the more volatile fund at 20.1% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GAB -83.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GAB and VXUS?
GAB and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GAB and VXUS?
GAB and VXUS share 107 common holdings with a 3.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8409 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GAB or VXUS?
GAB yields 10.10% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so GAB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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