GUT vs VTI
Gabelli Utility Trust (The) vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GUT | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.06% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $326M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 19.70% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 204 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +12.75% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.12% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.81% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.49% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -57.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 9, 1999 | May 24, 2001 |
GUT vs VTI Performance
Gabelli Utility Trust (The) (GUT) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GUT returned +20.12% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, GUT is up 12.75% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, GUT compounded at +8.81% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +4.49% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 25-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.07% annualized vs +0.82%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GUT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.8% compared with 15.3% for VTI. 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 -57.6% for GUT and -56.6% for VTI. 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 0.45. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GUT charges 2.06% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $206 vs $3 annually, a gap of $203 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GUT currently yields 19.70% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GUT and VTI share 97 holdings out of 2883 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GUT or VTI?
GUT has an expense ratio of 2.06% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $203 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GUT or VTI?
Over the past year GUT returned +20.12% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (25 years), GUT annualized +0.82% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GUT or VTI?
GUT has been the more volatile fund at 19.8% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: GUT -57.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GUT and VTI?
GUT and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.45, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GUT and VTI?
GUT and VTI share 97 common holdings with a 4.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2883 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GUT or VTI?
GUT yields 19.70% while VTI yields 1.07%, so GUT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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