CLOU vs QQQ
Global X Cloud Computing ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. CLOU delivered stronger 1-year returns. QQQ offers more diversification with 108 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CLOU | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.68% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $365M | $496.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 0.44% | |
| Holdings | 79 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +26.98% | +16.64% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.02% | +27.27% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.03% | +25.96% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.73% | +14.54% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 25.7% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -53.7% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 12, 2019 | Mar 10, 1999 |
CLOU vs QQQ Performance
Global X Cloud Computing ETF (CLOU) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year CLOU returned +29.02% while QQQ returned +27.27%. Year to date, CLOU is up 26.98% versus a gain of 16.64% for QQQ.
Over three years, CLOU compounded at +13.03% per year against +25.96% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are -0.73% and +14.54% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.03% annualized vs +9.12%. 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 25.7% for CLOU. 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 -53.7% for CLOU 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
CLOU charges 0.68% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $68 vs $18 annually, a gap of $50 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CLOU currently yields 0.00% against 0.44% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
CLOU and QQQ share 6 holdings out of 133 unique holdings combined, representing a 6.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CLOU or QQQ?
CLOU has an expense ratio of 0.68% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $50 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CLOU or QQQ?
Over the past year CLOU returned +29.02% vs +27.27% for QQQ, so CLOU leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), CLOU annualized +9.12% vs +13.03% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CLOU or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 25.7% for CLOU. Worst drawdown: CLOU -53.7% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both CLOU and QQQ?
CLOU 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 CLOU and QQQ?
CLOU and QQQ share 6 common holdings with a 6.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 133 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CLOU or QQQ?
CLOU yields 0.00% while QQQ yields 0.44%, so QQQ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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