DDFS vs SPY
Innovator Equity Dual Directional 15 Buffer ETF - September vs State Street SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust
Quick Verdict
SPY has a lower expense ratio. SPY delivered stronger 1-year returns. SPY offers more diversification with 503 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DDFS | SPY | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.09% | |
| AUM | $45M | $789.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.01% | |
| Holdings | 7 | 505 | |
| YTD Return | +4.94% | +13.39% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.29% | +22.52% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.36% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +13.19% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | - | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -2.3% | -56.5% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | State Street Investment Management | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 2, 2025 | Jan 22, 1993 |
DDFS vs SPY Performance
Innovator Equity Dual Directional 15 Buffer ETF - September (DDFS) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and State Street SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) is a ETF from State Street Investment Management. Over the past year DDFS returned +8.29% while SPY returned +22.52%. Year to date, DDFS is up 4.94% versus a gain of 13.39% for SPY.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -2.3% for DDFS and -56.5% for SPY. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DDFS charges 0.79% per year while SPY charges 0.09%. On a $10,000 position that is $79 vs $9 annually, a gap of $70 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DDFS currently yields 0.00% against 1.01% for SPY.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DDFS or SPY?
DDFS has an expense ratio of 0.79% while SPY charges 0.09%. SPY is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $70 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DDFS or SPY?
Over the past year DDFS returned +8.29% vs +22.52% for SPY, so SPY leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which pays a higher dividend, DDFS or SPY?
DDFS yields 0.00% while SPY yields 1.01%, so SPY currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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