IBLC vs QQQ
iShares Blockchain and Tech 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 108 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IBLC | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.47% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $81M | $496.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.71% | 0.44% | |
| Holdings | 52 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | -1.01% | +19.52% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.44% | +26.68% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +34.68% | +26.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +15.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 67.2% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -62.5% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 25, 2022 | Mar 10, 1999 |
IBLC vs QQQ Performance
iShares Blockchain and Tech ETF (IBLC) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year IBLC returned +8.44% while QQQ returned +26.68%. Year to date, IBLC is down 1.01% versus a gain of 19.52% for QQQ.
Over three years, IBLC compounded at +34.68% per year against +26.64% for QQQ. Across the full 4-year window we track, IBLC has the edge at +18.14% annualized vs +13.14%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IBLC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 67.2% compared with 30.6% for QQQ. 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 -62.5% for IBLC 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 0.76. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IBLC charges 0.47% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $47 vs $18 annually, a gap of $29 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IBLC currently yields 5.71% against 0.44% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
IBLC and QQQ share 3 holdings out of 141 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IBLC or QQQ?
IBLC has an expense ratio of 0.47% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $29 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IBLC or QQQ?
Over the past year IBLC returned +8.44% vs +26.68% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), IBLC annualized +18.14% vs +13.14% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IBLC or QQQ?
IBLC has been the more volatile fund at 67.2% annualized versus 30.6% for QQQ. Worst drawdown: IBLC -62.5% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both IBLC and QQQ?
IBLC and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.76, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IBLC and QQQ?
IBLC and QQQ share 3 common holdings with a 8.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 141 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IBLC or QQQ?
IBLC yields 5.71% while QQQ yields 0.44%, so IBLC currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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