GGZ vs VXUS
Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. GGZ delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GGZ | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.00% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $169M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.34% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 312 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.97% | +14.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.04% | +25.40% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.76% | +20.47% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.40% | +9.76% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -59.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 23, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GGZ vs VXUS Performance
Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust (GGZ) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GGZ returned +27.04% while VXUS returned +25.40%. Year to date, GGZ is up 15.97% versus a gain of 14.26% for VXUS.
Over three years, GGZ compounded at +19.76% per year against +20.47% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +7.40% and +9.76% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, GGZ has the edge at +5.55% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GGZ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.4% 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 -59.0% for GGZ 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GGZ charges 3.00% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $300 vs $5 annually, a gap of $295 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GGZ currently yields 4.34% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GGZ and VXUS share 82 holdings out of 8087 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GGZ or VXUS?
GGZ has an expense ratio of 3.00% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $295 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GGZ or VXUS?
Over the past year GGZ returned +27.04% vs +25.40% for VXUS, so GGZ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), GGZ annualized +5.55% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GGZ or VXUS?
GGZ has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GGZ -59.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GGZ and VXUS?
GGZ and VXUS 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 VXUS?
GGZ and VXUS share 82 common holdings with a 2.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8087 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GGZ or VXUS?
GGZ yields 4.34% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so GGZ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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