NPCT vs QQQ
Nuveen Core Plus Impact Fund 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 | NPCT | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.38% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | - | $455.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.27% | 0.41% | |
| Holdings | 131 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +3.55% | +19.68% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.39% | +26.75% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.12% | +26.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -2.98% | +15.39% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.8% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.8% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 27, 2021 | Mar 10, 1999 |
NPCT vs QQQ Performance
Nuveen Core Plus Impact Fund (NPCT) is a ETF from Nuveen and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year NPCT returned +0.39% while QQQ returned +26.75%. Year to date, NPCT is up 3.55% versus a gain of 19.68% for QQQ.
Over three years, NPCT compounded at +12.12% per year against +26.25% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are -2.98% and +15.39% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.15% annualized vs -2.94%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QQQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.6% compared with 16.8% for NPCT. 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 -46.8% for NPCT 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NPCT charges 1.38% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $138 vs $18 annually, a gap of $120 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NPCT currently yields 11.27% against 0.41% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
NPCT and QQQ share 0 holdings out of 109 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, NPCT or QQQ?
NPCT has an expense ratio of 1.38% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $120 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NPCT or QQQ?
Over the past year NPCT returned +0.39% vs +26.75% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), NPCT annualized -2.94% vs +13.15% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NPCT or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 16.8% for NPCT. Worst drawdown: NPCT -46.8% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both NPCT and QQQ?
NPCT and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NPCT and QQQ?
NPCT and QQQ share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 109 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NPCT or QQQ?
NPCT yields 11.27% while QQQ yields 0.41%, so NPCT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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