FTGS vs PHDG
First Trust Growth Strength ETF vs Invesco S&P 500 Downside Hedged ETF
Quick Verdict
PHDG has a lower expense ratio. PHDG delivered stronger 1-year returns. PHDG offers more diversification with 494 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FTGS | PHDG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.39% | |
| AUM | $1.3B | $61M | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.09% | 1.68% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 514 | |
| YTD Return | +13.23% | +12.90% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.66% | +17.89% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.89% | +9.78% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +4.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | 9.9% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.0% | -23.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 25, 2022 | Dec 5, 2012 |
FTGS vs PHDG Performance
First Trust Growth Strength ETF (FTGS) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Invesco S&P 500 Downside Hedged ETF (PHDG) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year FTGS returned +16.66% while PHDG returned +17.89%. Year to date, FTGS is up 13.23% versus a gain of 12.90% for PHDG.
Over three years, FTGS compounded at +18.89% per year against +9.78% for PHDG. Across the full 4-year window we track, FTGS has the edge at +20.00% annualized vs +4.44%. 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 9.9% for PHDG. 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 -23.6% for PHDG. 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTGS charges 0.60% per year while PHDG charges 0.39%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $39 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTGS currently yields 0.09% against 1.68% for PHDG.
Holdings Overlap
FTGS and PHDG share 46 holdings out of 498 unique holdings combined, representing a 13.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FTGS or PHDG?
FTGS has an expense ratio of 0.60% while PHDG charges 0.39%. PHDG is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTGS or PHDG?
Over the past year FTGS returned +16.66% vs +17.89% for PHDG, so PHDG leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FTGS annualized +20.00% vs +4.44% for PHDG. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTGS or PHDG?
FTGS has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 9.9% for PHDG. Worst drawdown: FTGS -20.0% vs PHDG -23.6%.
Should I hold both FTGS and PHDG?
FTGS and PHDG have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTGS and PHDG?
FTGS and PHDG share 46 common holdings with a 13.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 498 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTGS or PHDG?
FTGS yields 0.09% while PHDG yields 1.68%, so PHDG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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