MAXI vs QQQ
Simplify Bitcoin 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 | MAXI | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.31% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $26M | $455.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 67.57% | 0.41% | |
| Holdings | 11 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | -38.33% | +17.46% | |
| 1Y Return | -65.54% | +26.02% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.74% | +25.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +15.12% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 59.0% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -69.8% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 29, 2022 | Mar 10, 1999 |
MAXI vs QQQ Performance
Simplify Bitcoin Strategy ETF (MAXI) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year MAXI returned -65.54% while QQQ returned +26.02%. Year to date, MAXI is down 38.33% versus a gain of 17.46% for QQQ.
Over three years, MAXI compounded at +5.74% per year against +25.51% for QQQ. Across the full 4-year window we track, MAXI has the edge at +16.25% annualized vs +13.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MAXI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 59.0% 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 -69.8% for MAXI 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 0.38. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MAXI charges 1.31% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $131 vs $18 annually, a gap of $113 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MAXI currently yields 67.57% against 0.41% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
MAXI and QQQ share 0 holdings out of 104 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, MAXI or QQQ?
MAXI has an expense ratio of 1.31% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $113 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MAXI or QQQ?
Over the past year MAXI returned -65.54% vs +26.02% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), MAXI annualized +16.25% vs +13.08% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MAXI or QQQ?
MAXI has been the more volatile fund at 59.0% annualized versus 30.6% for QQQ. Worst drawdown: MAXI -69.8% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both MAXI and QQQ?
MAXI and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.38, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MAXI and QQQ?
MAXI and QQQ share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 104 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MAXI or QQQ?
MAXI yields 67.57% while QQQ yields 0.41%, so MAXI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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