GLU vs VYM
The Gabelli Global Utility & Income Trust vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.40% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $145M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.26% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 272 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.53% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.97% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.73% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.81% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -64.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 25, 2004 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GLU vs VYM Performance
The Gabelli Global Utility & Income Trust (GLU) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GLU returned +13.97% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, GLU is up 1.53% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, GLU compounded at +18.73% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +4.81% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% 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 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 -64.9% for GLU 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLU charges 1.40% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $140 vs $4 annually, a gap of $136 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLU currently yields 6.26% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GLU and VYM share 70 holdings out of 745 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLU or VYM?
GLU has an expense ratio of 1.40% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $136 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLU or VYM?
Over the past year GLU returned +13.97% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), GLU annualized +1.55% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLU or VYM?
GLU has been the more volatile fund at 17.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GLU -64.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GLU and VYM?
GLU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GLU and VYM?
GLU and VYM share 70 common holdings with a 8.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 745 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLU or VYM?
GLU yields 6.26% while VYM yields 2.86%, so GLU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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