GBTC vs IVV
Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF vs iShares Core S&P 500 ETF
Quick Verdict
IVV has a lower expense ratio. IVV delivered stronger 1-year returns. IVV offers more diversification with 508 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GBTC | IVV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.50% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $8.4B | $907.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.10% | |
| Holdings | 1 | 508 | |
| YTD Return | -14.98% | +12.71% | |
| 1Y Return | -32.32% | +21.89% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +51.98% | +22.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.40% | +12.96% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 117.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -89.9% | -56.5% | |
| Fund Family | Grayscale | iShares by BlackRock (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 25, 2013 | May 15, 2000 |
GBTC vs IVV Performance
Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC) is a ETF from Grayscale and iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (IVV) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US). Over the past year GBTC returned -32.32% while IVV returned +21.89%. Year to date, GBTC is down 14.98% versus a gain of 12.71% for IVV.
Over three years, GBTC compounded at +51.98% per year against +22.08% for IVV; over five years the annualized figures are +8.40% and +12.96% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, GBTC has the edge at +55.55% annualized vs +7.00%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GBTC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 117.5% compared with 15.1% for IVV. 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 -89.9% for GBTC and -56.5% for IVV. 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 0.24. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GBTC charges 1.50% per year while IVV charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $150 vs $3 annually, a gap of $147 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GBTC currently yields 0.00% against 1.10% for IVV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GBTC or IVV?
GBTC has an expense ratio of 1.50% while IVV charges 0.03%. IVV is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $147 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GBTC or IVV?
Over the past year GBTC returned -32.32% vs +21.89% for IVV, so IVV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), GBTC annualized +55.55% vs +7.00% for IVV. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GBTC or IVV?
GBTC has been the more volatile fund at 117.5% annualized versus 15.1% for IVV. Worst drawdown: GBTC -89.9% vs IVV -56.5%.
Should I hold both GBTC and IVV?
GBTC and IVV have a monthly-return correlation of 0.24, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, GBTC or IVV?
GBTC yields 0.00% while IVV yields 1.10%, so IVV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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