GAST vs VTI
Gabelli Automation ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
GAST has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GAST | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $5M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.63% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 49 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +19.90% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.10% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.26% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.9% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 5, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
GAST vs VTI Performance
Gabelli Automation ETF (GAST) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GAST returned +13.10% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, GAST is up 19.90% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, GAST compounded at +15.26% per year against +21.83% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +7.34%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GAST has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.9% 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 -23.6% for GAST 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GAST charges 0.00% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $0 vs $3 annually, a gap of $3 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GAST currently yields 0.63% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GAST and VTI share 32 holdings out of 2804 unique holdings combined, representing a 6.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GAST or VTI?
GAST has an expense ratio of 0.00% while VTI charges 0.03%. GAST is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $3 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GAST or VTI?
Over the past year GAST returned +13.10% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), GAST annualized +7.34% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GAST or VTI?
GAST has been the more volatile fund at 16.9% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: GAST -23.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GAST and VTI?
GAST and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GAST and VTI?
GAST and VTI share 32 common holdings with a 6.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2804 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GAST or VTI?
GAST yields 0.63% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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