CTEX vs QQQ
Proshares S&P Kensho Cleantech ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. CTEX delivered stronger 1-year returns. QQQ offers more diversification with 108 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CTEX | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.58% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $5M | $455.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.67% | 0.41% | |
| Holdings | 32 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | -6.10% | +19.68% | |
| 1Y Return | +45.40% | +26.75% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.11% | +26.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +15.39% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 42.1% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -70.3% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 29, 2021 | Mar 10, 1999 |
CTEX vs QQQ Performance
Proshares S&P Kensho Cleantech ETF (CTEX) is a ETF from ProShares and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year CTEX returned +45.40% while QQQ returned +26.75%. Year to date, CTEX is down 6.10% versus a gain of 19.68% for QQQ.
Over three years, CTEX compounded at +7.11% per year against +26.25% for QQQ. Across the full 5-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.15% annualized vs -2.36%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CTEX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 42.1% compared with 30.6% for QQQ. 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 -70.3% for CTEX 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CTEX charges 0.58% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $58 vs $18 annually, a gap of $40 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CTEX currently yields 1.67% against 0.41% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
CTEX and QQQ share 1 holdings out of 132 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in CTEX | Weight in QQQ | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| TSLA | 2.77% | 3.16% | 0.39% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CTEX or QQQ?
CTEX has an expense ratio of 0.58% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $40 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CTEX or QQQ?
Over the past year CTEX returned +45.40% vs +26.75% for QQQ, so CTEX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), CTEX annualized -2.36% vs +13.15% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CTEX or QQQ?
CTEX has been the more volatile fund at 42.1% annualized versus 30.6% for QQQ. Worst drawdown: CTEX -70.3% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both CTEX and QQQ?
CTEX and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CTEX and QQQ?
CTEX and QQQ share 1 common holdings with a 2.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 132 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CTEX or QQQ?
CTEX yields 1.67% while QQQ yields 0.41%, so CTEX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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