EMCS vs QQQ
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Select ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
EMCS has a lower expense ratio. EMCS delivered stronger 1-year returns. QQQ offers more diversification with 108 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EMCS | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $989M | $496.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.61% | 0.44% | |
| Holdings | 67 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +22.87% | +17.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +43.89% | +26.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.45% | +26.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.32% | +15.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.2% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.9% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 4, 2018 | Mar 10, 1999 |
EMCS vs QQQ Performance
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Select ETF (EMCS) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year EMCS returned +43.89% while QQQ returned +26.39%. Year to date, EMCS is up 22.87% versus a gain of 17.07% for QQQ.
Over three years, EMCS compounded at +26.45% per year against +26.08% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are +9.32% and +15.18% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.05% annualized vs +9.88%. 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 19.2% for EMCS. 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 -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 0.65. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMCS charges 0.15% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $18 annually, a gap of $3 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMCS currently yields 1.61% against 0.44% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
EMCS and QQQ share 1 holdings out of 164 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in EMCS | Weight in QQQ | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| PDD:IE | 0.75% | 0.27% | 0.48% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EMCS or QQQ?
EMCS has an expense ratio of 0.15% while QQQ charges 0.18%. EMCS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $3 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMCS or QQQ?
Over the past year EMCS returned +43.89% vs +26.39% for QQQ, so EMCS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), EMCS annualized +9.88% vs +13.05% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMCS or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 19.2% for EMCS. Worst drawdown: EMCS -44.9% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both EMCS and QQQ?
EMCS and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.65, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMCS and QQQ?
EMCS and QQQ share 1 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 164 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMCS or QQQ?
EMCS yields 1.61% while QQQ yields 0.44%, so EMCS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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