IZRL vs MFEM
ARK Israel Innovative Technology ETF vs PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
MFEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. MFEM offers more diversification with 701 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IZRL | MFEM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.49% | |
| AUM | $137M | $156M | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.63% | 2.39% | |
| Holdings | 67 | 701 | |
| YTD Return | -3.33% | +21.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.20% | +33.81% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.13% | +20.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.29% | +8.97% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.5% | 17.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -60.0% | -45.3% | |
| Fund Family | Ark Invest | PIMCO (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 4, 2017 | Aug 31, 2017 |
IZRL vs MFEM Performance
ARK Israel Innovative Technology ETF (IZRL) is a ETF from Ark Invest and PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF (MFEM) is a ETF from PIMCO (US). Over the past year IZRL returned +7.20% while MFEM returned +33.81%. Year to date, IZRL is down 3.33% versus a gain of 21.80% for MFEM.
Over three years, IZRL compounded at +15.13% per year against +20.43% for MFEM; over five years the annualized figures are -0.29% and +8.97% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, MFEM has the edge at +6.84% annualized vs +5.06%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IZRL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.5% compared with 17.7% for MFEM. 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 -60.0% for IZRL 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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IZRL charges 0.49% per year while MFEM charges 0.49%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $49 annually. On income, IZRL currently yields 2.63% against 2.39% for MFEM.
Holdings Overlap
IZRL and MFEM share 0 holdings out of 569 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, IZRL or MFEM?
IZRL has an expense ratio of 0.49% while MFEM charges 0.49%. They cost the same. On a $10,000 investment, that is $0 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IZRL or MFEM?
Over the past year IZRL returned +7.20% vs +33.81% for MFEM, so MFEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), IZRL annualized +5.06% vs +6.84% for MFEM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IZRL or MFEM?
IZRL has been the more volatile fund at 23.5% annualized versus 17.7% for MFEM. Worst drawdown: IZRL -60.0% vs MFEM -45.3%.
Should I hold both IZRL and MFEM?
IZRL and MFEM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IZRL and MFEM?
IZRL and MFEM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 569 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IZRL or MFEM?
IZRL yields 2.63% while MFEM yields 2.39%, so IZRL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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