GGN vs VYM
GAMCO Global Gold Natural Resources & Income Trust vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. GGN delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GGN | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.40% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $992M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.70% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 221 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +10.14% | +14.66% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.89% | +22.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.72% | +18.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +17.59% | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -94.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 29, 2005 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GGN vs VYM Performance
GAMCO Global Gold Natural Resources & Income Trust (GGN) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GGN returned +27.89% while VYM returned +22.16%. Year to date, GGN is up 10.14% versus a gain of 14.66% for VYM.
Over three years, GGN compounded at +23.72% per year against +18.72% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +17.59% and +12.18% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs -3.75%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GGN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.8% compared with 14.6% for VYM. 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 -58.8% for VYM. 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 0.45. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GGN charges 1.40% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $140 vs $4 annually, a gap of $136 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GGN currently yields 6.70% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GGN and VYM share 21 holdings out of 652 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GGN or VYM?
GGN has an expense ratio of 1.40% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $136 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GGN or VYM?
Over the past year GGN returned +27.89% vs +22.16% for VYM, so GGN leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), GGN annualized -3.75% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GGN or VYM?
GGN has been the more volatile fund at 26.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GGN -94.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GGN and VYM?
GGN and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.45, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GGN and VYM?
GGN and VYM share 21 common holdings with a 8.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 652 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GGN or VYM?
GGN yields 6.70% while VYM yields 2.24%, so GGN currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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