HOLD vs QQQ
Harbor Alpha Layering ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. QQQ delivered stronger 1-year returns. QQQ offers more diversification with 103 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HOLD | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | - | $455.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | - | 0.41% | |
| Holdings | 24 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +4.45% | +19.68% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.99% | +26.75% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +26.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +15.39% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.8% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -9.5% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Harbor Funds | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 13, 2025 | Mar 10, 1999 |
HOLD vs QQQ Performance
Harbor Alpha Layering ETF (HOLD) is a ETF from Harbor Funds and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year HOLD returned +13.99% while QQQ returned +26.75%. Year to date, HOLD is up 4.45% versus a gain of 19.68% for QQQ.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QQQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.6% compared with 15.8% for HOLD. 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 -9.5% for HOLD and -83.0% for QQQ. 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HOLD charges 0.70% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $18 annually, a gap of $52 per year that compounds over a long holding period.
Holdings Overlap
HOLD and QQQ share 0 holdings out of 104 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, HOLD or QQQ?
HOLD has an expense ratio of 0.70% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $52 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HOLD or QQQ?
Over the past year HOLD returned +13.99% vs +26.75% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HOLD or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 15.8% for HOLD. Worst drawdown: HOLD -9.5% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both HOLD and QQQ?
HOLD and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HOLD and QQQ?
HOLD and QQQ share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 104 unique securities.
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