AOD vs MFEM
Abrdn Total Dynamic Dividend Fund vs PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
MFEM has a lower expense ratio. MFEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. MFEM offers more diversification with 704 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AOD | MFEM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.16% | 0.49% | |
| AUM | $1.0B | $142M | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.72% | 2.14% | |
| Holdings | 86 | 730 | |
| YTD Return | +18.81% | +22.39% | |
| 1Y Return | +32.65% | +33.02% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.20% | +20.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.13% | +8.56% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.9% | 17.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -88.1% | -45.3% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | PIMCO (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 26, 2007 | Aug 31, 2017 |
AOD vs MFEM Performance
Abrdn Total Dynamic Dividend Fund (AOD) is a ETF from Aberdeen and PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF (MFEM) is a ETF from PIMCO (US). Over the past year AOD returned +32.65% while MFEM returned +33.02%. Year to date, AOD is up 18.81% versus a gain of 22.39% for MFEM.
Over three years, AOD compounded at +23.20% per year against +20.17% for MFEM; over five years the annualized figures are +11.13% and +8.56% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, MFEM has the edge at +6.92% annualized vs -4.01%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AOD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.9% compared with 17.7% for MFEM. 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 -88.1% for AOD and -45.3% for MFEM. 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AOD charges 1.16% per year while MFEM charges 0.49%. On a $10,000 position that is $116 vs $49 annually, a gap of $67 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AOD currently yields 11.72% against 2.14% for MFEM.
Holdings Overlap
AOD and MFEM share 3 holdings out of 786 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AOD or MFEM?
AOD has an expense ratio of 1.16% while MFEM charges 0.49%. MFEM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $67 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AOD or MFEM?
Over the past year AOD returned +32.65% vs +33.02% for MFEM, so MFEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), AOD annualized -4.01% vs +6.92% for MFEM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AOD or MFEM?
AOD has been the more volatile fund at 21.9% annualized versus 17.7% for MFEM. Worst drawdown: AOD -88.1% vs MFEM -45.3%.
Should I hold both AOD and MFEM?
AOD and MFEM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AOD and MFEM?
AOD and MFEM share 3 common holdings with a 2.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 786 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AOD or MFEM?
AOD yields 11.72% while MFEM yields 2.14%, so AOD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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