GLDM vs VYM
SPDR Gold MiniShares Trust vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. GLDM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLDM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.10% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $27.7B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 2 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.85% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.78% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +32.19% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +20.14% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | SPDR State Street Global Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 25, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GLDM vs VYM Performance
SPDR Gold MiniShares Trust (GLDM) is a ETF from SPDR State Street Global Advisors and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GLDM returned +31.78% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, GLDM is up 1.85% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, GLDM compounded at +32.19% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +20.14% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, GLDM has the edge at +16.53% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GLDM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.9% compared with 14.6% for VYM. 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 -58.8% for VYM. 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 0.15. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLDM charges 0.10% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $10 vs $4 annually, a gap of $6 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLDM currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLDM or VYM?
GLDM has an expense ratio of 0.10% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $6 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLDM or VYM?
Over the past year GLDM returned +31.78% vs +25.03% for VYM, so GLDM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), GLDM annualized +16.53% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLDM or VYM?
GLDM has been the more volatile fund at 15.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GLDM -26.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GLDM and VYM?
GLDM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.15, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLDM or VYM?
GLDM yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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