GLTR vs VXUS
GLTR vs VXUS
abrdn Physical Precious Metals Basket Shares ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. GLTR delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLTR | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.5B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -5.74% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +36.89% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +31.25% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +16.59% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -55.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 21, 2010 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GLTR vs VXUS Performance
abrdn Physical Precious Metals Basket Shares ETF (GLTR) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GLTR returned +36.89% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, GLTR is down 5.74% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, GLTR compounded at +31.25% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +16.59% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, GLTR has the edge at +6.21% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GLTR has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.3% 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 -55.7% for GLTR 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 0.42. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLTR charges 0.60% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $5 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLTR currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLTR or VXUS?
GLTR has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLTR or VXUS?
Over the past year GLTR returned +36.89% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so GLTR leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GLTR annualized +6.21% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLTR or VXUS?
GLTR has been the more volatile fund at 20.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GLTR -55.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GLTR and VXUS?
GLTR and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.42, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLTR or VXUS?
GLTR yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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