GGZ vs VTI
Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. GGZ delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GGZ | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.00% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $169M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.34% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 312 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +13.36% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.80% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.25% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.86% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -59.0% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 23, 2014 | May 24, 2001 |
GGZ vs VTI Performance
Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust (GGZ) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GGZ returned +24.80% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, GGZ is up 13.36% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, GGZ compounded at +19.25% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +6.86% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +5.35%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GGZ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.3% 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 -59.0% for GGZ 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GGZ charges 3.00% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $300 vs $3 annually, a gap of $297 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GGZ currently yields 4.34% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GGZ and VTI share 121 holdings out of 2966 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GGZ or VTI?
GGZ has an expense ratio of 3.00% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $297 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GGZ or VTI?
Over the past year GGZ returned +24.80% vs +22.35% for VTI, so GGZ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), GGZ annualized +5.35% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GGZ or VTI?
GGZ has been the more volatile fund at 21.3% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: GGZ -59.0% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GGZ and VTI?
GGZ and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GGZ and VTI?
GGZ and VTI share 121 common holdings with a 0.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2966 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GGZ or VTI?
GGZ yields 4.34% while VTI yields 1.07%, so GGZ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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