FQAL vs HUSV
Fidelity Quality Factor ETF vs First Trust Horizon Managed Volatility Domestic ETF
Quick Verdict
FQAL has a lower expense ratio. FQAL delivered stronger 1-year returns. FQAL offers more diversification with 130 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FQAL | HUSV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.70% | |
| AUM | $1.4B | $85M | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.15% | 1.27% | |
| Holdings | 130 | 102 | |
| YTD Return | +12.00% | +7.02% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.57% | +2.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.35% | +9.92% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.63% | +5.54% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 13.2% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.1% | -35.7% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | First Trust Portfolios (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 12, 2016 | Aug 24, 2016 |
FQAL vs HUSV Performance
Fidelity Quality Factor ETF (FQAL) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and First Trust Horizon Managed Volatility Domestic ETF (HUSV) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US). Over the past year FQAL returned +18.57% while HUSV returned +2.86%. Year to date, FQAL is up 12.00% versus a gain of 7.02% for HUSV.
Over three years, FQAL compounded at +20.35% per year against +9.92% for HUSV; over five years the annualized figures are +11.63% and +5.54% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, FQAL has the edge at +13.71% annualized vs +8.33%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FQAL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.0% compared with 13.2% for HUSV. 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 -34.1% for FQAL and -35.7% for HUSV. 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FQAL charges 0.15% per year while HUSV charges 0.70%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $70 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FQAL currently yields 1.15% against 1.27% for HUSV.
Holdings Overlap
FQAL and HUSV share 33 holdings out of 193 unique holdings combined, representing a 22.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FQAL or HUSV?
FQAL has an expense ratio of 0.15% while HUSV charges 0.70%. FQAL is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FQAL or HUSV?
Over the past year FQAL returned +18.57% vs +2.86% for HUSV, so FQAL leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), FQAL annualized +13.71% vs +8.33% for HUSV. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FQAL or HUSV?
FQAL has been the more volatile fund at 15.0% annualized versus 13.2% for HUSV. Worst drawdown: FQAL -34.1% vs HUSV -35.7%.
Should I hold both FQAL and HUSV?
FQAL and HUSV have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FQAL and HUSV?
FQAL and HUSV share 33 common holdings with a 22.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 193 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FQAL or HUSV?
FQAL yields 1.15% while HUSV yields 1.27%, so HUSV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.