GABF vs VYM
Gabelli Financial Services Opportunities ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GABF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.08% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $52M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.06% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 44 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.79% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.69% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.94% | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 10, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GABF vs VYM Performance
Gabelli Financial Services Opportunities ETF (GABF) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GABF returned -0.69% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, GABF is up 1.79% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Over three years, GABF compounded at +20.94% per year against +18.60% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, GABF has the edge at +19.50% annualized vs +7.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GABF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.8% compared with 14.6% for VYM. 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 -20.9% for GABF and -58.8% for VYM. 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 0.81. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GABF charges 1.08% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $108 vs $4 annually, a gap of $104 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GABF currently yields 2.06% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GABF and VYM share 14 holdings out of 586 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GABF or VYM?
GABF has an expense ratio of 1.08% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $104 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GABF or VYM?
Over the past year GABF returned -0.69% vs +24.43% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), GABF annualized +19.50% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GABF or VYM?
GABF has been the more volatile fund at 19.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GABF -20.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GABF and VYM?
GABF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.81, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GABF and VYM?
GABF and VYM share 14 common holdings with a 7.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 586 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GABF or VYM?
GABF yields 2.06% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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