GOF vs VXUS
Guggenheim Strategic Opportunities Fund 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GOF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.44% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.4B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 20.95% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 1,635 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -14.77% | +14.56% | |
| 1Y Return | -22.68% | +25.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -0.88% | +20.38% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -1.46% | +9.32% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -62.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Guggenheim Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 26, 2007 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GOF vs VXUS Performance
Guggenheim Strategic Opportunities Fund (GOF) is a ETF from Guggenheim Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GOF returned -22.68% while VXUS returned +25.24%. Year to date, GOF is down 14.77% versus a gain of 14.56% for VXUS.
Over three years, GOF compounded at -0.88% per year against +20.38% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -1.46% and +9.32% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.84% annualized vs +0.28%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GOF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.0% 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 -62.5% for GOF 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 0.48. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GOF charges 2.44% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $244 vs $5 annually, a gap of $239 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GOF currently yields 20.95% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GOF and VXUS share 7 holdings out of 8707 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GOF or VXUS?
GOF has an expense ratio of 2.44% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $239 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GOF or VXUS?
Over the past year GOF returned -22.68% vs +25.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GOF annualized +0.28% vs +4.84% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GOF or VXUS?
GOF has been the more volatile fund at 17.0% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GOF -62.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GOF and VXUS?
GOF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.48, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GOF and VXUS?
GOF and VXUS share 7 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8707 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GOF or VXUS?
GOF yields 20.95% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so GOF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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