ARKG vs FTGS
ARK Genomic Revolution ETF vs First Trust Growth Strength ETF
Quick Verdict
FTGS has a lower expense ratio. ARKG delivered stronger 1-year returns. FTGS offers more diversification with 50 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ARKG | FTGS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.60% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $1.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 0.09% | |
| Holdings | 33 | 51 | |
| YTD Return | +53.15% | +13.02% | |
| 1Y Return | +85.59% | +14.71% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.98% | +18.46% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -11.67% | - | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 36.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -83.6% | -20.0% | |
| Fund Family | Ark Invest | First Trust Portfolios (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 31, 2014 | Oct 25, 2022 |
ARKG vs FTGS Performance
ARK Genomic Revolution ETF (ARKG) is a ETF from Ark Invest and First Trust Growth Strength ETF (FTGS) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US). Over the past year ARKG returned +85.59% while FTGS returned +14.71%. Year to date, ARKG is up 53.15% versus a gain of 13.02% for FTGS.
Over three years, ARKG compounded at +11.98% per year against +18.46% for FTGS. Across the full 4-year window we track, FTGS has the edge at +19.91% annualized vs +7.99%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ARKG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 36.4% compared with 14.6% for FTGS. 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 -83.6% for ARKG and -20.0% for FTGS. 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ARKG charges 0.75% per year while FTGS charges 0.60%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $60 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ARKG currently yields 0.00% against 0.09% for FTGS.
Holdings Overlap
ARKG and FTGS share 1 holdings out of 80 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in ARKG | Weight in FTGS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| LLY | 4.82% | 2.56% | 2.26% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ARKG or FTGS?
ARKG has an expense ratio of 0.75% while FTGS charges 0.60%. FTGS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ARKG or FTGS?
Over the past year ARKG returned +85.59% vs +14.71% for FTGS, so ARKG leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), ARKG annualized +7.99% vs +19.91% for FTGS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ARKG or FTGS?
ARKG has been the more volatile fund at 36.4% annualized versus 14.6% for FTGS. Worst drawdown: ARKG -83.6% vs FTGS -20.0%.
Should I hold both ARKG and FTGS?
ARKG and FTGS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ARKG and FTGS?
ARKG and FTGS share 1 common holdings with a 2.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 80 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ARKG or FTGS?
ARKG yields 0.00% while FTGS yields 0.09%, so FTGS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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