GUT vs VYM
Gabelli Utility Trust (The) 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 | GUT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.06% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $326M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 19.70% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 204 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +13.45% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.24% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.04% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.62% | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -57.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 9, 1999 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GUT vs VYM Performance
Gabelli Utility Trust (The) (GUT) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GUT returned +19.24% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, GUT is up 13.45% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, GUT compounded at +9.04% per year against +19.07% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +4.62% and +12.50% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% 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 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 -57.6% for GUT 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 0.44. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GUT charges 2.06% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $206 vs $4 annually, a gap of $202 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GUT currently yields 19.70% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GUT and VYM share 70 holdings out of 726 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GUT or VYM?
GUT has an expense ratio of 2.06% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $202 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GUT or VYM?
Over the past year GUT returned +19.24% vs +23.48% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), GUT annualized +0.84% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GUT or VYM?
GUT has been the more volatile fund at 19.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GUT -57.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GUT and VYM?
GUT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.44, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GUT and VYM?
GUT and VYM share 70 common holdings with a 8.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 726 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GUT or VYM?
GUT yields 19.70% while VYM yields 2.24%, so GUT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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