FAAR vs HCOM
FAAR vs HCOM
First Trust Alternative Absolute Return Strategy ETF vs Hartford Schroders Commodity Strategy ETF
Quick Verdict
HCOM has a lower expense ratio. FAAR delivered stronger 1-year returns. HCOM offers more diversification with 55 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FAAR | HCOM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.97% | 0.59% | |
| AUM | $191M | $9M | |
| Dividend Yield | 9.19% | 10.95% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 55 | |
| YTD Return | +13.94% | +0.71% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.26% | -4.90% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.78% | -6.95% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.33% | - | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.2% | 14.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -18.8% | -28.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Hartford Funds | |
| Category | Commodity | Commodity | |
| Inception | May 18, 2016 | Sep 14, 2021 |
FAAR vs HCOM Performance
First Trust Alternative Absolute Return Strategy ETF (FAAR) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Hartford Schroders Commodity Strategy ETF (HCOM) is a ETF from Hartford Funds. Over the past year FAAR returned +19.26% while HCOM returned -4.90%. Year to date, FAAR is up 13.94% versus a gain of 0.71% for HCOM.
Over three years, FAAR compounded at +8.78% per year against -6.95% for HCOM. Across the full 4-year window we track, FAAR has the edge at +3.32% annualized vs +0.68%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HCOM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.7% compared with 9.2% for FAAR. 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 -18.8% for FAAR and -28.8% for HCOM. 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 0.52. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FAAR charges 0.97% per year while HCOM charges 0.59%. On a $10,000 position that is $97 vs $59 annually, a gap of $38 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FAAR currently yields 9.19% against 10.95% for HCOM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FAAR or HCOM?
FAAR has an expense ratio of 0.97% while HCOM charges 0.59%. HCOM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $38 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FAAR or HCOM?
Over the past year FAAR returned +19.26% vs -4.90% for HCOM, so FAAR leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FAAR annualized +3.32% vs +0.68% for HCOM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FAAR or HCOM?
HCOM has been the more volatile fund at 14.7% annualized versus 9.2% for FAAR. Worst drawdown: FAAR -18.8% vs HCOM -28.8%.
Should I hold both FAAR and HCOM?
FAAR and HCOM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.52, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, FAAR or HCOM?
FAAR yields 9.19% while HCOM yields 10.95%, so HCOM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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