HUSV vs MFEM
First Trust Horizon Managed Volatility Domestic 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 | HUSV | MFEM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.49% | |
| AUM | $85M | $156M | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.27% | 2.39% | |
| Holdings | 102 | 701 | |
| YTD Return | +7.02% | +21.04% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.86% | +33.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.92% | +20.26% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +5.54% | +9.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.2% | 17.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -35.7% | -45.3% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | PIMCO (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 24, 2016 | Aug 31, 2017 |
HUSV vs MFEM Performance
First Trust Horizon Managed Volatility Domestic ETF (HUSV) 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 HUSV returned +2.86% while MFEM returned +33.03%. Year to date, HUSV is up 7.02% versus a gain of 21.04% for MFEM.
Over three years, HUSV compounded at +9.92% per year against +20.26% for MFEM; over five years the annualized figures are +5.54% and +9.18% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, HUSV has the edge at +8.33% annualized vs +6.77%. 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 13.2% for HUSV. 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 -35.7% for HUSV 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 0.58. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HUSV charges 0.70% per year while MFEM charges 0.49%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $49 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HUSV currently yields 1.27% against 2.39% for MFEM.
Holdings Overlap
HUSV and MFEM share 0 holdings out of 604 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, HUSV or MFEM?
HUSV has an expense ratio of 0.70% while MFEM charges 0.49%. MFEM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HUSV or MFEM?
Over the past year HUSV returned +2.86% vs +33.03% for MFEM, so MFEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), HUSV annualized +8.33% vs +6.77% for MFEM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HUSV or MFEM?
MFEM has been the more volatile fund at 17.7% annualized versus 13.2% for HUSV. Worst drawdown: HUSV -35.7% vs MFEM -45.3%.
Should I hold both HUSV and MFEM?
HUSV and MFEM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.58, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HUSV and MFEM?
HUSV and MFEM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 604 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HUSV or MFEM?
HUSV yields 1.27% while MFEM yields 2.39%, so MFEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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