GF vs VTI
New Germany Fund Inc. 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 | GF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.10% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $207M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.27% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 53 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +0.62% | +13.67% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.99% | +22.17% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.10% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -3.79% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -85.0% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | DWS ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 1990 | May 24, 2001 |
GF vs VTI Performance
New Germany Fund Inc. (GF) is a ETF from DWS ETF Trust and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GF returned -0.99% while VTI returned +22.17%. Year to date, GF is up 0.62% versus a gain of 13.67% for VTI.
Over three years, GF compounded at +11.10% per year against +21.93% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -3.79% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 25-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.11% annualized vs +1.44%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.8% compared with 15.3% for VTI. 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 -85.0% for GF 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GF charges 1.10% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $110 vs $3 annually, a gap of $107 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GF currently yields 2.27% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GF and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2838 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GF or VTI?
GF has an expense ratio of 1.10% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $107 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GF or VTI?
Over the past year GF returned -0.99% vs +22.17% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (25 years), GF annualized +1.44% vs +8.11% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GF or VTI?
GF has been the more volatile fund at 26.8% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: GF -85.0% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GF and VTI?
GF and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GF and VTI?
GF and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2838 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GF or VTI?
GF yields 2.27% while VTI yields 1.07%, so GF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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