GSST vs VTI
GSST vs VTI
Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Bond ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GSST | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.16% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.31% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 413 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -0.16% | +13.39% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.38% | +23.21% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.43% | +20.65% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.31% | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 1.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Goldman Sachs Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 15, 2019 | May 24, 2001 |
GSST vs VTI Performance
Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Bond ETF (GSST) is a ETF from Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GSST returned +1.38% while VTI returned +23.21%. Year to date, GSST is down 0.16% versus a gain of 13.39% for VTI.
Over three years, GSST compounded at +4.43% per year against +20.65% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +3.31% and +12.18% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.11% annualized vs +2.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 1.4% for GSST. 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 -3.5% for GSST 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 0.47. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GSST charges 0.16% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $16 vs $3 annually, a gap of $13 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GSST currently yields 4.31% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GSST and VTI share 0 holdings out of 3012 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GSST or VTI?
GSST has an expense ratio of 0.16% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $13 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GSST or VTI?
Over the past year GSST returned +1.38% vs +23.21% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), GSST annualized +2.89% vs +8.11% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GSST or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 1.4% for GSST. Worst drawdown: GSST -3.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GSST and VTI?
GSST and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.47, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GSST and VTI?
GSST and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3012 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GSST or VTI?
GSST yields 4.31% while VTI yields 1.07%, so GSST currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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