DIG vs QQQ
ProShares Ultra Energy vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. DIG delivered stronger 1-year returns. QQQ offers more diversification with 103 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DIG | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $80M | $455.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.80% | 0.41% | |
| Holdings | 29 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +67.35% | +17.85% | |
| 1Y Return | +95.56% | +26.45% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.47% | +26.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +34.73% | +15.16% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 52.8% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -97.4% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 2007 | Mar 10, 1999 |
DIG vs QQQ Performance
ProShares Ultra Energy (DIG) is a ETF from ProShares and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year DIG returned +95.56% while QQQ returned +26.45%. Year to date, DIG is up 67.35% versus a gain of 17.85% for QQQ.
Over three years, DIG compounded at +15.47% per year against +26.07% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are +34.73% and +15.16% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.09% annualized vs -1.30%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DIG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 52.8% 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 -97.4% for DIG 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 0.43. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DIG charges 0.95% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $18 annually, a gap of $77 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DIG currently yields 1.80% against 0.41% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DIG or QQQ?
DIG has an expense ratio of 0.95% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $77 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DIG or QQQ?
Over the past year DIG returned +95.56% vs +26.45% for QQQ, so DIG leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), DIG annualized -1.30% vs +13.09% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DIG or QQQ?
DIG has been the more volatile fund at 52.8% annualized versus 30.6% for QQQ. Worst drawdown: DIG -97.4% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both DIG and QQQ?
DIG and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.43, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DIG and QQQ?
DIG and QQQ share 2 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 123 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DIG or QQQ?
DIG yields 1.80% while QQQ yields 0.41%, so DIG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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