GLDM vs VTI
SPDR Gold MiniShares Trust vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. GLDM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLDM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.10% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $30.1B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 2 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +6.51% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +38.15% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +34.40% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +20.57% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | SPDR State Street Global Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 25, 2018 | May 24, 2001 |
GLDM vs VTI Performance
SPDR Gold MiniShares Trust (GLDM) is a ETF from SPDR State Street Global Advisors and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GLDM returned +38.15% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, GLDM is up 6.51% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, GLDM compounded at +34.40% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +20.57% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, GLDM has the edge at +17.12% annualized vs +8.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GLDM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.3% 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 -26.3% for GLDM 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 0.12. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLDM charges 0.10% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $10 vs $3 annually, a gap of $7 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLDM currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLDM or VTI?
GLDM has an expense ratio of 0.10% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $7 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLDM or VTI?
Over the past year GLDM returned +38.15% vs +22.35% for VTI, so GLDM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), GLDM annualized +17.12% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLDM or VTI?
GLDM has been the more volatile fund at 16.3% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: GLDM -26.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GLDM and VTI?
GLDM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.12, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLDM or VTI?
GLDM yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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