GUT vs VXUS
Gabelli Utility Trust (The) 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 | GUT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.06% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $326M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 19.70% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 204 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +13.28% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +17.67% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.18% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +5.08% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -57.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 9, 1999 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GUT vs VXUS Performance
Gabelli Utility Trust (The) (GUT) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GUT returned +17.67% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, GUT is up 13.28% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, GUT compounded at +8.18% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +5.08% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs +0.84%. 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 15.1% 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 -57.6% for GUT 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 0.39. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GUT charges 2.06% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $206 vs $5 annually, a gap of $201 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GUT currently yields 19.70% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GUT and VXUS share 45 holdings out of 8017 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GUT or VXUS?
GUT has an expense ratio of 2.06% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $201 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GUT or VXUS?
Over the past year GUT returned +17.67% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GUT annualized +0.84% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GUT or VXUS?
GUT has been the more volatile fund at 19.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GUT -57.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GUT and VXUS?
GUT and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.39, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GUT and VXUS?
GUT and VXUS share 45 common holdings with a 2.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8017 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GUT or VXUS?
GUT yields 19.70% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so GUT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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