DRSK vs QQQ
Aptus Defined Risk ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. QQQ delivered stronger 1-year returns. QQQ offers more diversification with 108 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DRSK | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.78% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $1.5B | $496.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.74% | 0.44% | |
| Holdings | 25 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | -0.11% | +16.64% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.03% | +27.27% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.05% | +25.96% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.97% | +14.54% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.8% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.9% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Aptus Capital Advisors | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 7, 2018 | Mar 10, 1999 |
DRSK vs QQQ Performance
Aptus Defined Risk ETF (DRSK) is a ETF from Aptus Capital Advisors and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year DRSK returned -0.03% while QQQ returned +27.27%. Year to date, DRSK is down 0.11% versus a gain of 16.64% for QQQ.
Over three years, DRSK compounded at +8.05% per year against +25.96% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are +1.97% and +14.54% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.03% annualized vs +4.83%. 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 7.8% for DRSK. 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 -19.9% for DRSK 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
DRSK charges 0.78% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $78 vs $18 annually, a gap of $60 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DRSK currently yields 3.74% against 0.44% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
DRSK and QQQ share 0 holdings out of 112 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, DRSK or QQQ?
DRSK has an expense ratio of 0.78% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $60 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DRSK or QQQ?
Over the past year DRSK returned -0.03% vs +27.27% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), DRSK annualized +4.83% vs +13.03% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DRSK or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 7.8% for DRSK. Worst drawdown: DRSK -19.9% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both DRSK and QQQ?
DRSK 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 DRSK and QQQ?
DRSK and QQQ share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 112 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DRSK or QQQ?
DRSK yields 3.74% while QQQ yields 0.44%, so DRSK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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