GLD vs VXUS
GLD vs VXUS
SPDR Gold Shares 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 | GLD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.40% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $132.2B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 2 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +0.05% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.26% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +30.68% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +19.79% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | SPDR State Street Global Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 18, 2004 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GLD vs VXUS Performance
SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) is a ETF from SPDR State Street Global Advisors and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GLD returned +27.26% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, GLD is up 0.05% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, GLD compounded at +30.68% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +19.79% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, GLD has the edge at +10.64% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GLD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.2% 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 -45.6% for GLD 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 0.31. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLD charges 0.40% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $40 vs $5 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLD currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLD or VXUS?
GLD has an expense ratio of 0.40% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLD or VXUS?
Over the past year GLD returned +27.26% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GLD annualized +10.64% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLD or VXUS?
GLD has been the more volatile fund at 17.2% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GLD -45.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GLD and VXUS?
GLD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.31, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLD or VXUS?
GLD yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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