GGN vs VXUS
GAMCO Global Gold Natural Resources & Income Trust 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GGN | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.40% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $917M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.86% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 221 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +5.41% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.39% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.98% | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +15.82% | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -94.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 29, 2005 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GGN vs VXUS Performance
GAMCO Global Gold Natural Resources & Income Trust (GGN) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GGN returned +22.39% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, GGN is up 5.41% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Over three years, GGN compounded at +20.98% per year against +19.53% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +15.82% and +9.03% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs -3.95%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GGN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.7% compared with 15.1% for VXUS. 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 -94.2% for GGN 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GGN charges 1.40% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $140 vs $5 annually, a gap of $135 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GGN currently yields 6.86% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GGN and VXUS share 29 holdings out of 7902 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GGN or VXUS?
GGN has an expense ratio of 1.40% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $135 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GGN or VXUS?
Over the past year GGN returned +22.39% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GGN annualized -3.95% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GGN or VXUS?
GGN has been the more volatile fund at 26.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GGN -94.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GGN and VXUS?
GGN and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GGN and VXUS?
GGN and VXUS share 29 common holdings with a 3.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7902 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GGN or VXUS?
GGN yields 6.86% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so GGN currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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