AGD vs QQQ
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. QQQ delivered stronger 1-year returns. QQQ offers more diversification with 108 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AGD | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.35% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $325M | $496.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.69% | 0.44% | |
| Holdings | 88 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +14.38% | +16.23% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.96% | +26.23% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.20% | +25.75% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.32% | +14.78% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.7% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -88.3% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 26, 2006 | Mar 10, 1999 |
AGD vs QQQ Performance
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund (AGD) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year AGD returned +19.96% while QQQ returned +26.23%. Year to date, AGD is up 14.38% versus a gain of 16.23% for QQQ.
Over three years, AGD compounded at +23.20% per year against +25.75% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are +10.32% and +14.78% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.02% annualized vs -3.20%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QQQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.6% compared with 23.7% for AGD. 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 -88.3% for AGD and -83.0% for QQQ. 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AGD charges 1.35% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $135 vs $18 annually, a gap of $117 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AGD currently yields 11.69% against 0.44% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
AGD and QQQ share 12 holdings out of 176 unique holdings combined, representing a 16.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AGD or QQQ?
AGD has an expense ratio of 1.35% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $117 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AGD or QQQ?
Over the past year AGD returned +19.96% vs +26.23% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), AGD annualized -3.20% vs +13.02% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AGD or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 23.7% for AGD. Worst drawdown: AGD -88.3% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both AGD and QQQ?
AGD and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AGD and QQQ?
AGD and QQQ share 12 common holdings with a 16.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 176 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AGD or QQQ?
AGD yields 11.69% while QQQ yields 0.44%, so AGD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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