FTGS vs MFEM
First Trust Growth Strength ETF vs PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
MFEM has a lower expense ratio. MFEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. MFEM offers more diversification with 701 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FTGS | MFEM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.49% | |
| AUM | $1.4B | $156M | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.08% | 2.39% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 701 | |
| YTD Return | +13.05% | +22.70% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.54% | +34.93% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.80% | +20.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +8.69% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | 17.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.0% | -45.3% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | PIMCO (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 25, 2022 | Aug 31, 2017 |
FTGS vs MFEM Performance
First Trust Growth Strength ETF (FTGS) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF (MFEM) is a ETF from PIMCO (US). Over the past year FTGS returned +14.54% while MFEM returned +34.93%. Year to date, FTGS is up 13.05% versus a gain of 22.70% for MFEM.
Over three years, FTGS compounded at +18.80% per year against +20.54% for MFEM. Across the full 4-year window we track, FTGS has the edge at +19.89% annualized vs +6.94%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MFEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.7% compared with 14.6% for FTGS. 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 -45.3% for MFEM. 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTGS charges 0.60% per year while MFEM charges 0.49%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $49 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTGS currently yields 0.08% against 2.39% for MFEM.
Holdings Overlap
FTGS and MFEM share 0 holdings out of 553 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 MFEM?
FTGS has an expense ratio of 0.60% while MFEM charges 0.49%. MFEM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTGS or MFEM?
Over the past year FTGS returned +14.54% vs +34.93% for MFEM, so MFEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FTGS annualized +19.89% vs +6.94% for MFEM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTGS or MFEM?
MFEM has been the more volatile fund at 17.7% annualized versus 14.6% for FTGS. Worst drawdown: FTGS -20.0% vs MFEM -45.3%.
Should I hold both FTGS and MFEM?
FTGS and MFEM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTGS and MFEM?
FTGS and MFEM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 553 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTGS or MFEM?
FTGS yields 0.08% while MFEM yields 2.39%, so MFEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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