GRX vs VYM
The Gabelli Healthcare & Wellness RX 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GRX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.00% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $232M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.25% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 194 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +8.33% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.37% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.93% | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.32% | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -65.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 19, 2007 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GRX vs VYM Performance
The Gabelli Healthcare & Wellness RX Trust (GRX) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GRX returned +14.37% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, GRX is up 8.33% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Over three years, GRX compounded at +8.93% per year against +18.34% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.32% and +12.04% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs +3.13%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GRX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.7% 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 -65.0% for GRX 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GRX charges 3.00% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $300 vs $4 annually, a gap of $296 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GRX currently yields 6.25% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GRX and VYM share 28 holdings out of 750 unique holdings combined, representing a 12.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GRX or VYM?
GRX has an expense ratio of 3.00% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $296 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GRX or VYM?
Over the past year GRX returned +14.37% vs +20.88% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), GRX annualized +3.13% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GRX or VYM?
GRX has been the more volatile fund at 18.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GRX -65.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GRX and VYM?
GRX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GRX and VYM?
GRX and VYM share 28 common holdings with a 12.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 750 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GRX or VYM?
GRX yields 6.25% while VYM yields 2.24%, so GRX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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