IVV vs KAT
iShares Core S&P 500 ETF vs Scharf ETF
Quick Verdict
IVV has a lower expense ratio. IVV delivered stronger 1-year returns. IVV offers more diversification with 505 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IVV | KAT | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.03% | 0.75% | |
| AUM | $865.2B | $675M | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.09% | 0.48% | |
| Holdings | 508 | 38 | |
| YTD Return | +13.43% | +6.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.61% | +8.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.47% | - | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.26% | - | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.1% | 12.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -56.5% | -9.3% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Scharf Funds | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 15, 2000 | Dec 30, 2011 |
IVV vs KAT Performance
iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (IVV) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Scharf ETF (KAT) is a ETF from Scharf Funds. Over the past year IVV returned +22.61% while KAT returned +8.03%. Year to date, IVV is up 13.43% versus a gain of 6.96% for KAT.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IVV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 12.7% for KAT. 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 -56.5% for IVV and -9.3% for KAT. 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 0.50. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IVV charges 0.03% per year while KAT charges 0.75%. On a $10,000 position that is $3 vs $75 annually, a gap of $72 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IVV currently yields 1.09% against 0.48% for KAT.
Holdings Overlap
IVV and KAT share 24 holdings out of 514 unique holdings combined, representing a 15.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IVV or KAT?
IVV has an expense ratio of 0.03% while KAT charges 0.75%. IVV is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $72 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IVV or KAT?
Over the past year IVV returned +22.61% vs +8.03% for KAT, so IVV leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IVV or KAT?
IVV has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 12.7% for KAT. Worst drawdown: IVV -56.5% vs KAT -9.3%.
Should I hold both IVV and KAT?
IVV and KAT have a monthly-return correlation of 0.50, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IVV and KAT?
IVV and KAT share 24 common holdings with a 15.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 514 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IVV or KAT?
IVV yields 1.09% while KAT yields 0.48%, so IVV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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