PLTA vs QQQ
ProShares Ultra PLTR 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 107 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PLTA | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $7M | $486.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.98% | 0.44% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 107 | |
| YTD Return | -28.18% | +15.95% | |
| 1Y Return | -35.52% | +26.00% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +24.11% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +13.95% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 141.6% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -80.0% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 8, 2025 | Mar 10, 1999 |
PLTA vs QQQ Performance
ProShares Ultra PLTR ETF (PLTA) is a ETF from ProShares and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year PLTA returned -35.52% while QQQ returned +26.00%. Year to date, PLTA is down 28.18% versus a gain of 15.95% for QQQ.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PLTA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 141.6% 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 -80.0% for PLTA 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 0.18. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PLTA charges 0.95% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $18 annually, a gap of $77 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PLTA currently yields 3.98% against 0.44% for QQQ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PLTA or QQQ?
PLTA has an expense ratio of 0.95% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $77 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PLTA or QQQ?
Over the past year PLTA returned -35.52% vs +26.00% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PLTA or QQQ?
PLTA has been the more volatile fund at 141.6% annualized versus 30.6% for QQQ. Worst drawdown: PLTA -80.0% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both PLTA and QQQ?
PLTA and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.18, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PLTA or QQQ?
PLTA yields 3.98% while QQQ yields 0.44%, so PLTA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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