GLTR vs VYM
GLTR vs VYM
abrdn Physical Precious Metals Basket Shares ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. GLTR delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLTR | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.5B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -5.74% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +36.89% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +31.25% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +16.59% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -55.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 21, 2010 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GLTR vs VYM Performance
abrdn Physical Precious Metals Basket Shares ETF (GLTR) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GLTR returned +36.89% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, GLTR is down 5.74% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, GLTR compounded at +31.25% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +16.59% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +6.21%. 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 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 -55.7% for GLTR 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 0.21. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLTR charges 0.60% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $4 annually, a gap of $56 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLTR currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLTR or VYM?
GLTR has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $56 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLTR or VYM?
Over the past year GLTR returned +36.89% vs +26.12% for VYM, so GLTR leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GLTR annualized +6.21% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLTR or VYM?
GLTR has been the more volatile fund at 20.3% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GLTR -55.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GLTR and VYM?
GLTR and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.21, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLTR or VYM?
GLTR yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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