GDL vs VXUS
The GDL Fund vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GDL | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.70% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $119M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.50% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 129 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +3.25% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.77% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.27% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.59% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -72.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 25, 2007 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GDL vs VXUS Performance
The GDL Fund (GDL) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GDL returned +6.77% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, GDL is up 3.25% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, GDL compounded at +8.27% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +4.59% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs -2.76%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% 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 -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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GDL charges 2.70% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $270 vs $5 annually, a gap of $265 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GDL currently yields 4.50% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GDL and VXUS share 9 holdings out of 7975 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GDL or VXUS?
GDL has an expense ratio of 2.70% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $265 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GDL or VXUS?
Over the past year GDL returned +6.77% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GDL annualized -2.76% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GDL or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 8.5% for GDL. Worst drawdown: GDL -72.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GDL and VXUS?
GDL and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GDL and VXUS?
GDL and VXUS share 9 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7975 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GDL or VXUS?
GDL yields 4.50% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so GDL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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