FLQM vs QQQ
Franklin US Mid Cap Multifactor Index ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. QQQ delivered stronger 1-year returns. FLQM offers more diversification with 209 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FLQM | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $496.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.64% | 0.44% | |
| Holdings | 209 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +8.88% | +19.52% | |
| 1Y Return | +10.08% | +26.68% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.01% | +26.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.25% | +15.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.8% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -37.3% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 26, 2017 | Mar 10, 1999 |
FLQM vs QQQ Performance
Franklin US Mid Cap Multifactor Index ETF (FLQM) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year FLQM returned +10.08% while QQQ returned +26.68%. Year to date, FLQM is up 8.88% versus a gain of 19.52% for QQQ.
Over three years, FLQM compounded at +12.01% per year against +26.64% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are +7.25% and +15.36% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.14% annualized vs +11.28%. 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 16.8% for FLQM. 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 -37.3% for FLQM 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLQM charges 0.30% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $18 annually, a gap of $12 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FLQM currently yields 1.64% against 0.44% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
FLQM and QQQ share 7 holdings out of 300 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FLQM or QQQ?
FLQM has an expense ratio of 0.30% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $12 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FLQM or QQQ?
Over the past year FLQM returned +10.08% vs +26.68% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FLQM annualized +11.28% vs +13.14% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLQM or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 16.8% for FLQM. Worst drawdown: FLQM -37.3% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both FLQM and QQQ?
FLQM and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLQM and QQQ?
FLQM and QQQ share 7 common holdings with a 1.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 300 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLQM or QQQ?
FLQM yields 1.64% while QQQ yields 0.44%, so FLQM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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