GLU vs QQQ
The Gabelli Global Utility & Income Trust vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. QQQ delivered stronger 1-year returns. GLU offers more diversification with 257 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLU | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.40% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $145M | $455.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.26% | 0.41% | |
| Holdings | 272 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +1.53% | +19.68% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.32% | +26.75% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.60% | +26.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.56% | +15.39% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.6% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -64.9% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 25, 2004 | Mar 10, 1999 |
GLU vs QQQ Performance
The Gabelli Global Utility & Income Trust (GLU) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year GLU returned +13.32% while QQQ returned +26.75%. Year to date, GLU is up 1.53% versus a gain of 19.68% for QQQ.
Over three years, GLU compounded at +18.60% per year against +26.25% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are +4.56% and +15.39% respectively. Across the full 22-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.15% annualized vs +1.54%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QQQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.6% compared with 17.6% for GLU. 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 -64.9% for GLU and -83.0% for QQQ. 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 0.52. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLU charges 1.40% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $140 vs $18 annually, a gap of $122 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLU currently yields 6.26% against 0.41% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
GLU and QQQ share 14 holdings out of 346 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLU or QQQ?
GLU has an expense ratio of 1.40% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $122 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLU or QQQ?
Over the past year GLU returned +13.32% vs +26.75% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (22 years), GLU annualized +1.54% vs +13.15% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLU or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 17.6% for GLU. Worst drawdown: GLU -64.9% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both GLU and QQQ?
GLU and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.52, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GLU and QQQ?
GLU and QQQ share 14 common holdings with a 2.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 346 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLU or QQQ?
GLU yields 6.26% while QQQ yields 0.41%, so GLU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.