IMST vs QQQ
Bitwise MSTR Option Income Strategy 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 | IMST | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.98% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $6M | $455.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 252.16% | 0.41% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | -32.44% | +19.68% | |
| 1Y Return | -70.05% | +26.75% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +26.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +15.39% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 48.9% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -75.6% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Bitwise | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 1, 2025 | Mar 10, 1999 |
IMST vs QQQ Performance
Bitwise MSTR Option Income Strategy ETF (IMST) is a ETF from Bitwise and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year IMST returned -70.05% while QQQ returned +26.75%. Year to date, IMST is down 32.44% versus a gain of 19.68% for QQQ.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IMST has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 48.9% 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 -75.6% for IMST 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 0.35. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IMST charges 0.98% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $98 vs $18 annually, a gap of $80 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IMST currently yields 252.16% against 0.41% for QQQ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IMST or QQQ?
IMST has an expense ratio of 0.98% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $80 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IMST or QQQ?
Over the past year IMST returned -70.05% vs +26.75% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), IMST annualized -51.17% vs +13.15% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IMST or QQQ?
IMST has been the more volatile fund at 48.9% annualized versus 30.6% for QQQ. Worst drawdown: IMST -75.6% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both IMST and QQQ?
IMST and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.35, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, IMST or QQQ?
IMST yields 252.16% while QQQ yields 0.41%, so IMST currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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