FTGS vs SOXL
First Trust Growth Strength ETF vs Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bull 3X ETF
Quick Verdict
FTGS has a lower expense ratio. SOXL delivered stronger 1-year returns. FTGS offers more diversification with 51 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FTGS | SOXL | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.75% | |
| AUM | $1.4B | $24.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.08% | 0.01% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 43 | |
| YTD Return | +12.03% | +155.29% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.00% | +375.74% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.62% | +78.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +23.06% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | 87.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.0% | -90.5% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | |
| Category | Equity | Alternative | |
| Inception | Oct 25, 2022 | Mar 11, 2010 |
FTGS vs SOXL Performance
First Trust Growth Strength ETF (FTGS) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bull 3X ETF (SOXL) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust. Over the past year FTGS returned +14.00% while SOXL returned +375.74%. Year to date, FTGS is up 12.03% versus a gain of 155.29% for SOXL.
Over three years, FTGS compounded at +18.62% per year against +78.72% for SOXL. Across the full 4-year window we track, SOXL has the edge at +37.43% annualized vs +19.50%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SOXL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 87.7% 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 -90.5% for SOXL. 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 0.56. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTGS charges 0.60% per year while SOXL charges 0.75%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $75 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTGS currently yields 0.08% against 0.01% for SOXL.
Holdings Overlap
FTGS and SOXL share 4 holdings out of 81 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FTGS or SOXL?
FTGS has an expense ratio of 0.60% while SOXL charges 0.75%. FTGS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTGS or SOXL?
Over the past year FTGS returned +14.00% vs +375.74% for SOXL, so SOXL leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FTGS annualized +19.50% vs +37.43% for SOXL. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTGS or SOXL?
SOXL has been the more volatile fund at 87.7% annualized versus 14.6% for FTGS. Worst drawdown: FTGS -20.0% vs SOXL -90.5%.
Should I hold both FTGS and SOXL?
FTGS and SOXL have a monthly-return correlation of 0.56, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTGS and SOXL?
FTGS and SOXL share 4 common holdings with a 8.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 81 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTGS or SOXL?
FTGS yields 0.08% while SOXL yields 0.01%, so FTGS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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