QAI vs VOO
NYLI Hedge Multi-Strategy Tracker ETF vs Vanguard S&P 500 ETF
Quick Verdict
VOO has a lower expense ratio. VOO delivered stronger 1-year returns. VOO offers more diversification with 509 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | QAI | VOO | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.88% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.0B | $997.4B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.40% | 1.08% | |
| Holdings | 129 | 509 | |
| YTD Return | +8.06% | +12.25% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.60% | +20.92% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.75% | +21.79% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.37% | +13.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.2% | 14.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.9% | -34.3% | |
| Fund Family | INDEXIQ ETF TRUST | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 25, 2009 | Sep 7, 2010 |
QAI vs VOO Performance
NYLI Hedge Multi-Strategy Tracker ETF (QAI) is a ETF from INDEXIQ ETF TRUST and Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QAI returned +12.60% while VOO returned +20.92%. Year to date, QAI is up 8.06% versus a gain of 12.25% for VOO.
Over three years, QAI compounded at +8.75% per year against +21.79% for VOO; over five years the annualized figures are +4.37% and +13.05% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VOO has the edge at +13.45% annualized vs +3.41%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VOO has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.1% compared with 5.2% for QAI. 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 -14.9% for QAI 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QAI charges 0.88% per year while VOO charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $88 vs $3 annually, a gap of $85 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QAI currently yields 1.40% against 1.08% for VOO.
Holdings Overlap
QAI and VOO share 1 holdings out of 537 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in QAI | Weight in VOO | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| VEA | 7.02% | 0.01% | 7.01% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, QAI or VOO?
QAI has an expense ratio of 0.88% while VOO charges 0.03%. VOO is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $85 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QAI or VOO?
Over the past year QAI returned +12.60% vs +20.92% for VOO, so VOO leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), QAI annualized +3.41% vs +13.45% for VOO. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QAI or VOO?
VOO has been the more volatile fund at 14.1% annualized versus 5.2% for QAI. Worst drawdown: QAI -14.9% vs VOO -34.3%.
Should I hold both QAI and VOO?
QAI and VOO have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between QAI and VOO?
QAI and VOO share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 537 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, QAI or VOO?
QAI yields 1.40% while VOO yields 1.08%, so QAI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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