GSEU vs VYM
Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta Europe Equity ETF 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 | GSEU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $123M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.73% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 353 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +12.08% | +15.34% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.40% | +23.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.79% | +19.22% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.02% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -39.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Goldman Sachs Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 2, 2016 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GSEU vs VYM Performance
Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta Europe Equity ETF (GSEU) is a ETF from Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GSEU returned +20.40% while VYM returned +23.24%. Year to date, GSEU is up 12.08% versus a gain of 15.34% for VYM.
Over three years, GSEU compounded at +18.79% per year against +19.22% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +9.02% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, GSEU has the edge at +8.35% annualized vs +7.04%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GSEU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.1% 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 -39.4% for GSEU 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 0.80. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GSEU charges 0.25% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $4 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GSEU currently yields 2.73% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GSEU and VYM share 1 holdings out of 942 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in GSEU | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| TIGO:LU | 0.09% | 0.03% | 0.06% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GSEU or VYM?
GSEU has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GSEU or VYM?
Over the past year GSEU returned +20.40% vs +23.24% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), GSEU annualized +8.35% vs +7.04% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GSEU or VYM?
GSEU has been the more volatile fund at 16.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GSEU -39.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GSEU and VYM?
GSEU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GSEU and VYM?
GSEU and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 942 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GSEU or VYM?
GSEU yields 2.73% while VYM yields 2.24%, so GSEU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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