GAST vs QQQ
Gabelli Automation ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
GAST has a lower expense ratio. QQQ delivered stronger 1-year returns. QQQ offers more diversification with 108 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GAST | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $5M | $496.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.63% | 0.44% | |
| Holdings | 49 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +19.90% | +16.64% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.10% | +27.27% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.26% | +25.96% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +14.54% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.9% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.6% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 5, 2022 | Mar 10, 1999 |
GAST vs QQQ Performance
Gabelli Automation ETF (GAST) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year GAST returned +13.10% while QQQ returned +27.27%. Year to date, GAST is up 19.90% versus a gain of 16.64% for QQQ.
Over three years, GAST compounded at +15.26% per year against +25.96% for QQQ. Across the full 4-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.03% annualized vs +7.34%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QQQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.6% compared with 16.9% for GAST. 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 -23.6% for GAST and -83.0% for QQQ. 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
GAST charges 0.00% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $0 vs $18 annually, a gap of $18 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GAST currently yields 0.63% against 0.44% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
GAST and QQQ share 3 holdings out of 148 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GAST or QQQ?
GAST has an expense ratio of 0.00% while QQQ charges 0.18%. GAST is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $18 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GAST or QQQ?
Over the past year GAST returned +13.10% vs +27.27% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), GAST annualized +7.34% vs +13.03% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GAST or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 16.9% for GAST. Worst drawdown: GAST -23.6% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both GAST and QQQ?
GAST and QQQ 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 GAST and QQQ?
GAST and QQQ share 3 common holdings with a 5.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 148 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GAST or QQQ?
GAST yields 0.63% while QQQ yields 0.44%, so GAST 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.