EMCS vs IVV
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Select ETF vs iShares Core S&P 500 ETF
Quick Verdict
IVV has a lower expense ratio. EMCS delivered stronger 1-year returns. IVV offers more diversification with 508 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EMCS | IVV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $989M | $907.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.61% | 1.10% | |
| Holdings | 67 | 508 | |
| YTD Return | +23.44% | +14.29% | |
| 1Y Return | +44.02% | +21.79% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.15% | +22.19% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.57% | +13.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.9% | -56.5% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | iShares by BlackRock (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 4, 2018 | May 15, 2000 |
EMCS vs IVV Performance
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Select ETF (EMCS) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (IVV) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US). Over the past year EMCS returned +44.02% while IVV returned +21.79%. Year to date, EMCS is up 23.44% versus a gain of 14.29% for IVV.
Over three years, EMCS compounded at +26.15% per year against +22.19% for IVV; over five years the annualized figures are +8.57% and +13.28% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, EMCS has the edge at +9.96% annualized vs +7.06%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EMCS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.2% compared with 15.1% for IVV. 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 -44.9% for EMCS and -56.5% for IVV. 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMCS charges 0.15% per year while IVV charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $3 annually, a gap of $12 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMCS currently yields 1.61% against 1.10% for IVV.
Holdings Overlap
EMCS and IVV share 1 holdings out of 567 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in EMCS | Weight in IVV | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPGP | 0.00% | 0.62% | 0.62% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EMCS or IVV?
EMCS has an expense ratio of 0.15% while IVV charges 0.03%. IVV is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $12 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMCS or IVV?
Over the past year EMCS returned +44.02% vs +21.79% for IVV, so EMCS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), EMCS annualized +9.96% vs +7.06% for IVV. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMCS or IVV?
EMCS has been the more volatile fund at 19.2% annualized versus 15.1% for IVV. Worst drawdown: EMCS -44.9% vs IVV -56.5%.
Should I hold both EMCS and IVV?
EMCS and IVV have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMCS and IVV?
EMCS and IVV share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 567 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMCS or IVV?
EMCS yields 1.61% while IVV yields 1.10%, so EMCS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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