GAST vs VXUS
Gabelli Automation ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
GAST has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GAST | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $5M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.63% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 49 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +19.90% | +15.44% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.10% | +26.36% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.26% | +20.98% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.68% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 5, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GAST vs VXUS Performance
Gabelli Automation ETF (GAST) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GAST returned +13.10% while VXUS returned +26.36%. Year to date, GAST is up 19.90% versus a gain of 15.44% for VXUS.
Over three years, GAST compounded at +15.26% per year against +20.98% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, GAST has the edge at +7.34% annualized vs +4.90%. 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 15.1% 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 -23.6% for GAST 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GAST charges 0.00% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $0 vs $5 annually, a gap of $5 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GAST currently yields 0.63% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GAST and VXUS share 5 holdings out of 7913 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GAST or VXUS?
GAST has an expense ratio of 0.00% while VXUS charges 0.05%. GAST is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $5 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GAST or VXUS?
Over the past year GAST returned +13.10% vs +26.36% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), GAST annualized +7.34% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GAST or VXUS?
GAST has been the more volatile fund at 16.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GAST -23.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GAST and VXUS?
GAST and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GAST and VXUS?
GAST and VXUS share 5 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7913 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GAST or VXUS?
GAST yields 0.63% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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