GAST vs VYM
Gabelli Automation ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
GAST has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GAST | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $5M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.63% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 49 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +19.90% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.10% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.26% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 5, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GAST vs VYM Performance
Gabelli Automation ETF (GAST) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GAST returned +13.10% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, GAST is up 19.90% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, GAST compounded at +15.26% per year against +19.07% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, GAST has the edge at +7.34% annualized vs +7.05%. 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 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 -23.6% for GAST 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
GAST charges 0.00% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $0 vs $4 annually, a gap of $4 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GAST currently yields 0.63% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GAST and VYM share 11 holdings out of 641 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GAST or VYM?
GAST has an expense ratio of 0.00% while VYM charges 0.04%. GAST is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $4 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GAST or VYM?
Over the past year GAST returned +13.10% vs +23.48% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), GAST annualized +7.34% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GAST or VYM?
GAST has been the more volatile fund at 16.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GAST -23.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GAST and VYM?
GAST 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 GAST and VYM?
GAST and VYM share 11 common holdings with a 3.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 641 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GAST or VYM?
GAST yields 0.63% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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