FNDF vs QQQ
Schwab Fundamental International Equity ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. FNDF delivered stronger 1-year returns. FNDF offers more diversification with 842 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FNDF | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $24.6B | $455.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.11% | 0.41% | |
| Holdings | 909 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +20.71% | +17.46% | |
| 1Y Return | +38.06% | +26.02% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.73% | +25.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +14.14% | +15.12% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.6% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.0% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Charles Schwab Asset Management | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 15, 2013 | Mar 10, 1999 |
FNDF vs QQQ Performance
Schwab Fundamental International Equity ETF (FNDF) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year FNDF returned +38.06% while QQQ returned +26.02%. Year to date, FNDF is up 20.71% versus a gain of 17.46% for QQQ.
Over three years, FNDF compounded at +23.73% per year against +25.51% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are +14.14% and +15.12% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.08% annualized vs +7.72%. 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 15.6% for FNDF. 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 -44.0% for FNDF 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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FNDF charges 0.25% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $18 annually, a gap of $7 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FNDF currently yields 3.11% against 0.41% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
FNDF and QQQ share 7 holdings out of 938 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FNDF or QQQ?
FNDF has an expense ratio of 0.25% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $7 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FNDF or QQQ?
Over the past year FNDF returned +38.06% vs +26.02% for QQQ, so FNDF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), FNDF annualized +7.72% vs +13.08% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FNDF or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 15.6% for FNDF. Worst drawdown: FNDF -44.0% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both FNDF and QQQ?
FNDF and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FNDF and QQQ?
FNDF and QQQ share 7 common holdings with a 0.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 938 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FNDF or QQQ?
FNDF yields 3.11% while QQQ yields 0.41%, so FNDF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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