FDG vs VOO
American Century Focused Dynamic Growth ETF vs Vanguard S&P 500 ETF
Quick Verdict
VOO has a lower expense ratio. VOO delivered stronger 1-year returns. VOO offers more diversification with 509 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FDG | VOO | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $428M | $997.4B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.08% | |
| Holdings | 45 | 509 | |
| YTD Return | +3.35% | +12.95% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.80% | +20.69% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.64% | +22.09% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.85% | +13.40% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.2% | 14.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.7% | -34.3% | |
| Fund Family | American Century ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 31, 2020 | Sep 7, 2010 |
FDG vs VOO Performance
American Century Focused Dynamic Growth ETF (FDG) is a ETF from American Century ETFs and Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FDG returned +12.80% while VOO returned +20.69%. Year to date, FDG is up 3.35% versus a gain of 12.95% for VOO.
Over three years, FDG compounded at +26.64% per year against +22.09% for VOO; over five years the annualized figures are +9.85% and +13.40% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, FDG has the edge at +21.18% annualized vs +13.50%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FDG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.2% compared with 14.1% for VOO. 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 -43.7% for FDG and -34.3% for VOO. 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 0.88. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FDG charges 0.45% per year while VOO charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $3 annually, a gap of $42 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FDG currently yields 0.00% against 1.08% for VOO.
Holdings Overlap
FDG and VOO share 23 holdings out of 526 unique holdings combined, representing a 27.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FDG or VOO?
FDG has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VOO charges 0.03%. VOO is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $42 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FDG or VOO?
Over the past year FDG returned +12.80% vs +20.69% for VOO, so VOO leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), FDG annualized +21.18% vs +13.50% for VOO. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FDG or VOO?
FDG has been the more volatile fund at 23.2% annualized versus 14.1% for VOO. Worst drawdown: FDG -43.7% vs VOO -34.3%.
Should I hold both FDG and VOO?
FDG and VOO have a monthly-return correlation of 0.88, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FDG and VOO?
FDG and VOO share 23 common holdings with a 27.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 526 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FDG or VOO?
FDG yields 0.00% while VOO yields 1.08%, so VOO currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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