GIAX vs VTI
Nicholas Global Equity and Income ETF 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 | GIAX | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.03% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $112M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 26.86% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 87 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +10.77% | +12.79% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.38% | +20.47% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +11.84% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | XFunds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 29, 2024 | May 24, 2001 |
GIAX vs VTI Performance
Nicholas Global Equity and Income ETF (GIAX) is a ETF from XFunds and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GIAX returned +14.38% while VTI returned +20.47%. Year to date, GIAX is up 10.77% versus a gain of 12.79% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GIAX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.8% 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 -20.4% for GIAX 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GIAX charges 1.03% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $103 vs $3 annually, a gap of $100 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GIAX currently yields 26.86% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GIAX and VTI share 17 holdings out of 2796 unique holdings combined, representing a 26.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GIAX or VTI?
GIAX has an expense ratio of 1.03% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $100 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GIAX or VTI?
Over the past year GIAX returned +14.38% vs +20.47% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), GIAX annualized +13.22% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GIAX or VTI?
GIAX has been the more volatile fund at 20.8% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: GIAX -20.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GIAX and VTI?
GIAX and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GIAX and VTI?
GIAX and VTI share 17 common holdings with a 26.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2796 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GIAX or VTI?
GIAX yields 26.86% while VTI yields 1.07%, so GIAX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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