FAAR vs KF
FAAR vs KF
First Trust Alternative Absolute Return Strategy ETF vs The Korea Fund, Inc.
Quick Verdict
KF delivered stronger 1-year returns. KF offers more diversification with 49 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FAAR | KF | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.97% | - | |
| AUM | $191M | $285M | |
| Dividend Yield | 9.19% | 1.57% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 52 | |
| YTD Return | +13.94% | +55.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.26% | +121.76% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.78% | +40.09% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.33% | +15.19% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.2% | 43.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -18.8% | -77.0% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | The Korea Fund, Inc. (KF) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 18, 2016 | Aug 29, 1984 |
FAAR vs KF Performance
First Trust Alternative Absolute Return Strategy ETF (FAAR) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and The Korea Fund, Inc. (KF) is a ETF from The Korea Fund, Inc. (KF). Over the past year FAAR returned +19.26% while KF returned +121.76%. Year to date, FAAR is up 13.94% versus a gain of 55.19% for KF.
Over three years, FAAR compounded at +8.78% per year against +40.09% for KF; over five years the annualized figures are +7.33% and +15.19% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, KF has the edge at +16.27% annualized vs +3.32%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
KF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 43.4% 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 -77.0% for KF. 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 0.18. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Holdings Overlap
FAAR and KF share 0 holdings out of 50 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which performed better, FAAR or KF?
Over the past year FAAR returned +19.26% vs +121.76% for KF, so KF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), FAAR annualized +3.32% vs +16.27% for KF. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FAAR or KF?
KF has been the more volatile fund at 43.4% annualized versus 9.2% for FAAR. Worst drawdown: FAAR -18.8% vs KF -77.0%.
Should I hold both FAAR and KF?
FAAR and KF have a monthly-return correlation of 0.18, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FAAR and KF?
FAAR and KF share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 50 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FAAR or KF?
FAAR yields 9.19% while KF yields 1.57%, so FAAR currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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