GLU vs VTI
The Gabelli Global Utility & Income Trust 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 | GLU | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.40% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $145M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.26% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 272 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +1.69% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.63% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.68% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.53% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -64.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 25, 2004 | May 24, 2001 |
GLU vs VTI Performance
The Gabelli Global Utility & Income Trust (GLU) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GLU returned +13.63% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, GLU is up 1.69% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, GLU compounded at +18.68% per year against +21.27% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +4.53% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 22-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs +1.55%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GLU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.6% compared with 15.3% 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 -64.9% for GLU 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLU charges 1.40% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $140 vs $3 annually, a gap of $137 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLU currently yields 6.26% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GLU and VTI share 104 holdings out of 2936 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLU or VTI?
GLU has an expense ratio of 1.40% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $137 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLU or VTI?
Over the past year GLU returned +13.63% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (22 years), GLU annualized +1.55% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLU or VTI?
GLU has been the more volatile fund at 17.6% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: GLU -64.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GLU and VTI?
GLU and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GLU and VTI?
GLU and VTI share 104 common holdings with a 5.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2936 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLU or VTI?
GLU yields 6.26% while VTI yields 1.07%, so GLU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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