GDL vs VTI
The GDL Fund vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GDL | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.70% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $119M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.50% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 129 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +3.39% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.78% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.28% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.60% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -72.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 25, 2007 | May 24, 2001 |
GDL vs VTI Performance
The GDL Fund (GDL) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GDL returned +5.78% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, GDL is up 3.39% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, GDL compounded at +8.28% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +4.60% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs -2.75%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 8.5% for GDL. 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 -72.5% for GDL 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 0.65. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GDL charges 2.70% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $270 vs $3 annually, a gap of $267 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GDL currently yields 4.50% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GDL and VTI share 31 holdings out of 2871 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GDL or VTI?
GDL has an expense ratio of 2.70% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $267 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GDL or VTI?
Over the past year GDL returned +5.78% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), GDL annualized -2.75% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GDL or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 8.5% for GDL. Worst drawdown: GDL -72.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GDL and VTI?
GDL and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.65, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GDL and VTI?
GDL and VTI share 31 common holdings with a 0.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2871 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GDL or VTI?
GDL yields 4.50% while VTI yields 1.07%, so GDL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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