GOLY vs VXUS
Strategy Shares Gold Enhanced Yield ETF 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 | GOLY | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.90% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $88M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 9.33% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 15 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -22.07% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | -3.30% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.89% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +5.97% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | STRATEGY SHARES | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | May 17, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GOLY vs VXUS Performance
Strategy Shares Gold Enhanced Yield ETF (GOLY) is a ETF from STRATEGY SHARES and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GOLY returned -3.30% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, GOLY is down 22.07% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, GOLY compounded at +17.89% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +5.97% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs +1.34%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GOLY has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.8% 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 -45.0% for GOLY 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 0.66. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GOLY charges 0.90% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $90 vs $5 annually, a gap of $85 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GOLY currently yields 9.33% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GOLY and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7876 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GOLY or VXUS?
GOLY has an expense ratio of 0.90% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $85 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GOLY or VXUS?
Over the past year GOLY returned -3.30% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), GOLY annualized +1.34% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GOLY or VXUS?
GOLY has been the more volatile fund at 23.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GOLY -45.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GOLY and VXUS?
GOLY and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.66, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GOLY and VXUS?
GOLY and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7876 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GOLY or VXUS?
GOLY yields 9.33% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so GOLY currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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