CLSE vs QQQ
Convergence Long/Short Equity ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. CLSE delivered stronger 1-year returns. CLSE offers more diversification with 371 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CLSE | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.52% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $882M | $496.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.77% | 0.44% | |
| Holdings | 371 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +20.41% | +16.23% | |
| 1Y Return | +37.65% | +26.23% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +29.32% | +25.75% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +14.78% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.5% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.4% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Convergence Investment Partners | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 29, 2009 | Mar 10, 1999 |
CLSE vs QQQ Performance
Convergence Long/Short Equity ETF (CLSE) is a ETF from Convergence Investment Partners and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year CLSE returned +37.65% while QQQ returned +26.23%. Year to date, CLSE is up 20.41% versus a gain of 16.23% for QQQ.
Over three years, CLSE compounded at +29.32% per year against +25.75% for QQQ. Across the full 5-year window we track, CLSE has the edge at +19.92% annualized vs +13.02%. 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 12.5% for CLSE. 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 -16.4% for CLSE 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CLSE charges 1.52% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $152 vs $18 annually, a gap of $134 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CLSE currently yields 0.77% against 0.44% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
CLSE and QQQ share 48 holdings out of 423 unique holdings combined, representing a 30.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CLSE or QQQ?
CLSE has an expense ratio of 1.52% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $134 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CLSE or QQQ?
Over the past year CLSE returned +37.65% vs +26.23% for QQQ, so CLSE leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), CLSE annualized +19.92% vs +13.02% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CLSE or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 12.5% for CLSE. Worst drawdown: CLSE -16.4% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both CLSE and QQQ?
CLSE and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CLSE and QQQ?
CLSE and QQQ share 48 common holdings with a 30.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 423 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CLSE or QQQ?
CLSE yields 0.77% while QQQ yields 0.44%, so CLSE currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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