GLU vs VXUS
GLU vs VXUS
The Gabelli Global Utility & Income Trust 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLU | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.40% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $145M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.26% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 272 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +1.61% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.17% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.83% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.89% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -64.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 25, 2004 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GLU vs VXUS Performance
The Gabelli Global Utility & Income Trust (GLU) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GLU returned +14.17% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, GLU is up 1.61% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, GLU compounded at +17.83% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +4.89% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% 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 15.1% 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 -64.9% for GLU 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLU charges 1.40% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $140 vs $5 annually, a gap of $135 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLU currently yields 6.26% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GLU and VXUS share 91 holdings out of 8027 unique holdings combined, representing a 6.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in GLU | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| IBE:MA | 2.01% | 0.36% | 1.65% |
| KPN:AS | 2.11% | 0.05% | 2.06% |
| 6758:JP | 1.45% | 0.31% | 1.14% |
| ENEI:MI | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| NG:LN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| RR:LN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| CBK:MU | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| EMA:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| GIVN:SM | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| CNHI:AS | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings GLU shares with VXUS Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. X-ray my whole portfolio$99/yr Pro · 7-day refund | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLU or VXUS?
GLU has an expense ratio of 1.40% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $135 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLU or VXUS?
Over the past year GLU returned +14.17% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GLU annualized +1.55% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLU or VXUS?
GLU has been the more volatile fund at 17.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GLU -64.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GLU and VXUS?
GLU and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GLU and VXUS?
GLU and VXUS share 91 common holdings with a 6.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8027 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLU or VXUS?
GLU yields 6.26% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so GLU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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