GSST vs VXUS
GSST vs VXUS
Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Bond ETF 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GSST | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.16% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.31% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 413 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -0.16% | +13.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.50% | +28.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.44% | +18.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.31% | +9.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 1.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Goldman Sachs Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 15, 2019 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GSST vs VXUS Performance
Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Bond ETF (GSST) is a ETF from Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GSST returned +1.50% while VXUS returned +28.53%. Year to date, GSST is down 0.16% versus a gain of 13.65% for VXUS.
Over three years, GSST compounded at +4.44% per year against +18.64% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +3.31% and +9.00% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.81% annualized vs +2.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% 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 -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 0.53. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GSST charges 0.16% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $16 vs $5 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GSST currently yields 4.31% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GSST and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8090 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 VXUS?
GSST has an expense ratio of 0.16% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GSST or VXUS?
Over the past year GSST returned +1.50% vs +28.53% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), GSST annualized +2.89% vs +4.81% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GSST or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 1.4% for GSST. Worst drawdown: GSST -3.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GSST and VXUS?
GSST and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.53, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GSST and VXUS?
GSST and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8090 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GSST or VXUS?
GSST yields 4.31% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so GSST currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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