FAAR vs MFEM
First Trust Alternative Absolute Return Strategy ETF vs PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
MFEM has a lower expense ratio. MFEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. MFEM offers more diversification with 704 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FAAR | MFEM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.97% | 0.49% | |
| AUM | $191M | $142M | |
| Dividend Yield | 9.19% | 2.14% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 730 | |
| YTD Return | +15.76% | +20.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.43% | +33.25% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.16% | +19.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.39% | +8.07% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.1% | 17.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -18.8% | -45.3% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | PIMCO (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 18, 2016 | Aug 31, 2017 |
FAAR vs MFEM Performance
First Trust Alternative Absolute Return Strategy ETF (FAAR) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF (MFEM) is a ETF from PIMCO (US). Over the past year FAAR returned +20.43% while MFEM returned +33.25%. Year to date, FAAR is up 15.76% versus a gain of 20.26% for MFEM.
Over three years, FAAR compounded at +9.16% per year against +19.51% for MFEM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.39% and +8.07% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, MFEM has the edge at +6.71% annualized vs +3.48%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MFEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.6% compared with 9.1% 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 -45.3% for MFEM. 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 0.15. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FAAR charges 0.97% per year while MFEM charges 0.49%. On a $10,000 position that is $97 vs $49 annually, a gap of $48 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FAAR currently yields 9.19% against 2.14% for MFEM.
Holdings Overlap
FAAR and MFEM share 0 holdings out of 705 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, FAAR or MFEM?
FAAR has an expense ratio of 0.97% while MFEM charges 0.49%. MFEM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $48 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FAAR or MFEM?
Over the past year FAAR returned +20.43% vs +33.25% for MFEM, so MFEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FAAR annualized +3.48% vs +6.71% for MFEM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FAAR or MFEM?
MFEM has been the more volatile fund at 17.6% annualized versus 9.1% for FAAR. Worst drawdown: FAAR -18.8% vs MFEM -45.3%.
Should I hold both FAAR and MFEM?
FAAR and MFEM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.15, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FAAR and MFEM?
FAAR and MFEM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 705 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FAAR or MFEM?
FAAR yields 9.19% while MFEM yields 2.14%, so FAAR currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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