GLL vs VXUS
ProShares UltraShort Gold 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLL | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $88M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -11.39% | +13.91% | |
| 1Y Return | -40.88% | +25.90% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -42.05% | +19.76% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -29.38% | +8.82% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 32.4% | 15.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 1, 2008 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GLL vs VXUS Performance
ProShares UltraShort Gold (GLL) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GLL returned -40.88% while VXUS returned +25.90%. Year to date, GLL is down 11.39% versus a gain of 13.91% for VXUS.
Over three years, GLL compounded at -42.05% per year against +19.76% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -29.38% and +8.82% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.80% annualized vs -22.34%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GLL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 32.4% compared with 15.0% 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 -99.2% for GLL 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 -0.30. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLL charges 0.95% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $5 annually, a gap of $90 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLL currently yields 0.00% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GLL and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8095 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 VXUS?
GLL has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $90 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLL or VXUS?
Over the past year GLL returned -40.88% vs +25.90% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GLL annualized -22.34% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLL or VXUS?
GLL has been the more volatile fund at 32.4% annualized versus 15.0% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GLL -99.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GLL and VXUS?
GLL and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.30, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GLL and VXUS?
GLL and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8095 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLL or VXUS?
GLL yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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