FTGS vs HFXI
First Trust Growth Strength ETF vs NYLI FTSE International Equity Currency Neutral ETF
Quick Verdict
HFXI has a lower expense ratio. HFXI delivered stronger 1-year returns. HFXI offers more diversification with 876 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FTGS | HFXI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.20% | |
| AUM | $1.4B | $2.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.08% | 3.39% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 876 | |
| YTD Return | +13.05% | +18.25% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.54% | +31.21% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.80% | +21.56% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.46% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | 13.9% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.0% | -34.2% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | INDEXIQ ETF TRUST | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 25, 2022 | Jul 22, 2015 |
FTGS vs HFXI Performance
First Trust Growth Strength ETF (FTGS) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and NYLI FTSE International Equity Currency Neutral ETF (HFXI) is a ETF from INDEXIQ ETF TRUST. Over the past year FTGS returned +14.54% while HFXI returned +31.21%. Year to date, FTGS is up 13.05% versus a gain of 18.25% for HFXI.
Over three years, FTGS compounded at +18.80% per year against +21.56% for HFXI. Across the full 4-year window we track, FTGS has the edge at +19.89% annualized vs +8.01%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FTGS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 13.9% for HFXI. 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 -20.0% for FTGS and -34.2% for HFXI. 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 0.71. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTGS charges 0.60% per year while HFXI charges 0.20%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $20 annually, a gap of $40 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTGS currently yields 0.08% against 3.39% for HFXI.
Holdings Overlap
FTGS and HFXI share 0 holdings out of 792 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, FTGS or HFXI?
FTGS has an expense ratio of 0.60% while HFXI charges 0.20%. HFXI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $40 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTGS or HFXI?
Over the past year FTGS returned +14.54% vs +31.21% for HFXI, so HFXI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FTGS annualized +19.89% vs +8.01% for HFXI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTGS or HFXI?
FTGS has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.9% for HFXI. Worst drawdown: FTGS -20.0% vs HFXI -34.2%.
Should I hold both FTGS and HFXI?
FTGS and HFXI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.71, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTGS and HFXI?
FTGS and HFXI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 792 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTGS or HFXI?
FTGS yields 0.08% while HFXI yields 3.39%, so HFXI 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.