DFIV vs QQQ
Dimensional International Value ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. DFIV delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFIV offers more diversification with 578 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFIV | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.27% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $20.9B | $455.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.74% | 0.41% | |
| Holdings | 628 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +16.76% | +19.68% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.88% | +26.75% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +24.67% | +26.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +16.20% | +15.39% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.8% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -25.4% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 16, 1999 | Mar 10, 1999 |
DFIV vs QQQ Performance
Dimensional International Value ETF (DFIV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year DFIV returned +31.88% while QQQ returned +26.75%. Year to date, DFIV is up 16.76% versus a gain of 19.68% for QQQ.
Over three years, DFIV compounded at +24.67% per year against +26.25% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are +16.20% and +15.39% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFIV has the edge at +16.20% annualized vs +13.15%. 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 15.8% for DFIV. 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 -25.4% for DFIV 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 0.44. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFIV charges 0.27% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $27 vs $18 annually, a gap of $9 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFIV currently yields 2.74% against 0.41% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
DFIV and QQQ share 0 holdings out of 681 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFIV or QQQ?
DFIV has an expense ratio of 0.27% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $9 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFIV or QQQ?
Over the past year DFIV returned +31.88% vs +26.75% for QQQ, so DFIV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFIV annualized +16.20% vs +13.15% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFIV or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 15.8% for DFIV. Worst drawdown: DFIV -25.4% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both DFIV and QQQ?
DFIV and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.44, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFIV and QQQ?
DFIV and QQQ share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 681 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFIV or QQQ?
DFIV yields 2.74% while QQQ yields 0.41%, so DFIV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.