GLL vs VTI
ProShares UltraShort Gold vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLL | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $129M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -11.93% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | -47.38% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -42.31% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -30.08% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 32.3% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 1, 2008 | May 24, 2001 |
GLL vs VTI Performance
ProShares UltraShort Gold (GLL) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GLL returned -47.38% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, GLL is down 11.93% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, GLL compounded at -42.31% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -30.08% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 18-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs -22.42%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GLL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 32.3% compared with 15.4% 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 -99.2% for GLL 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 -0.08. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLL charges 0.95% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $3 annually, a gap of $92 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLL currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GLL and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2784 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLL or VTI?
GLL has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $92 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLL or VTI?
Over the past year GLL returned -47.38% vs +22.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (18 years), GLL annualized -22.42% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLL or VTI?
GLL has been the more volatile fund at 32.3% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: GLL -99.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GLL and VTI?
GLL and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.08, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GLL and VTI?
GLL and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2784 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLL or VTI?
GLL yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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