MFDX vs VOO
PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF vs Vanguard S&P 500 ETF
Quick Verdict
VOO has a lower expense ratio. VOO delivered stronger 1-year returns. MFDX offers more diversification with 1111 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MFDX | VOO | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $451M | $979.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.77% | 1.09% | |
| Holdings | 1,303 | 509 | |
| YTD Return | +12.23% | +14.48% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.86% | +22.02% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.04% | +21.80% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.54% | +13.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.9% | 14.2% | |
| Max Drawdown | -39.1% | -34.3% | |
| Fund Family | PIMCO (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 31, 2017 | Sep 7, 2010 |
MFDX vs VOO Performance
PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF (MFDX) is a ETF from PIMCO (US) and Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MFDX returned +20.86% while VOO returned +22.02%. Year to date, MFDX is up 12.23% versus a gain of 14.48% for VOO.
Over three years, MFDX compounded at +19.04% per year against +21.80% for VOO; over five years the annualized figures are +10.54% and +13.36% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VOO has the edge at +13.61% annualized vs +8.18%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MFDX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.9% compared with 14.2% for VOO. 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 -39.1% for MFDX and -34.3% for VOO. 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 0.81. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MFDX charges 0.39% per year while VOO charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $3 annually, a gap of $36 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MFDX currently yields 2.77% against 1.09% for VOO.
Holdings Overlap
MFDX and VOO share 7 holdings out of 1609 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MFDX or VOO?
MFDX has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VOO charges 0.03%. VOO is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $36 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MFDX or VOO?
Over the past year MFDX returned +20.86% vs +22.02% for VOO, so VOO leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), MFDX annualized +8.18% vs +13.61% for VOO. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MFDX or VOO?
MFDX has been the more volatile fund at 14.9% annualized versus 14.2% for VOO. Worst drawdown: MFDX -39.1% vs VOO -34.3%.
Should I hold both MFDX and VOO?
MFDX and VOO have a monthly-return correlation of 0.81, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MFDX and VOO?
MFDX and VOO share 7 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1609 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MFDX or VOO?
MFDX yields 2.77% while VOO yields 1.09%, so MFDX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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