GAEM vs VTI
Simplify Gamma Emerging Market Bond ETF 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 | GAEM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.76% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $41M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.15% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 80 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +4.52% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.90% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 12, 2024 | May 24, 2001 |
GAEM vs VTI Performance
Simplify Gamma Emerging Market Bond ETF (GAEM) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GAEM returned +8.90% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, GAEM is up 4.52% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 4.6% for GAEM. 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 -3.8% for GAEM 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GAEM charges 0.76% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $76 vs $3 annually, a gap of $73 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GAEM currently yields 7.15% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GAEM and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2814 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, GAEM or VTI?
GAEM has an expense ratio of 0.76% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $73 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GAEM or VTI?
Over the past year GAEM returned +8.90% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), GAEM annualized +10.46% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GAEM or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 4.6% for GAEM. Worst drawdown: GAEM -3.8% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GAEM and VTI?
GAEM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GAEM and VTI?
GAEM and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2814 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GAEM or VTI?
GAEM yields 7.15% while VTI yields 1.07%, so GAEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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