GXLC vs. PFDE

Last updated Jun 6, 2026

GXLC (Global X U.S. 500 ETF) and PFDE (Pathfinder Disciplined U.S. Equity ETF) are both Large Cap Blend Equities funds. GXLC is passively managed, while PFDE is actively managed. With a 0.96 correlation, they move nearly in lockstep. GXLC charges 0.02%/yr vs 0.59%/yr for PFDE.

Performance

GXLC vs. PFDE - Performance Comparison

The chart below illustrates the hypothetical performance of a $10,000 investment in Global X U.S. 500 ETF (GXLC) and Pathfinder Disciplined U.S. Equity ETF (PFDE). The values are adjusted to include any dividend payments, if applicable.

Returns By Period

GXLC

• 1D: -2.61%
• 1M: 0.60%
• YTD: 8.50%
• 6M: 8.24%
• 1Y: —
• 3Y*: —
• 5Y*: —
• 10Y*: —

PFDE

• 1D: -3.11%
• 1M: 0.37%
• YTD: —
• 6M: —
• 1Y: —
• 3Y*: —
• 5Y*: —
• 10Y*: —

*Multi-year figures are annualized to reflect compound growth (CAGR)

GXLC vs. PFDE - Yearly Performance Comparison

	2026 (YTD)
GXLC Global X U.S. 500 ETF	8.50%
PFDE Pathfinder Disciplined U.S. Equity ETF	9.27%

Correlation

The correlation between GXLC and PFDE is 0.96 - these two move nearly in lockstep. At this level, holding both provides almost no diversification benefit. If you already own one, adding the other does little to reduce portfolio risk.

	Correlation
Correlation (All Time) Calculated using the full available price history since Jan 2, 2026	0.96

Return for Risk

GXLC vs. PFDE - Risk-Adjusted Trends Comparison

This table presents a comparison of risk-adjusted performance metrics for Global X U.S. 500 ETF (GXLC) and Pathfinder Disciplined U.S. Equity ETF (PFDE). Risk-adjusted metrics are performance indicators that assess an investment's returns in relation to its risk, enabling a more accurate comparison of different investment options.

Risk / return metrics aren't available yet — we need at least 12 months of trading data to calculate them.

Sharpe Ratios by Period

	GXLC	PFDE	Difference
Sharpe Ratio (All Time) Calculated using the full available price history	1.30	1.43	-0.13

Drawdowns

GXLC vs. PFDE - Drawdown Comparison

The maximum GXLC drawdown since its inception was -9.08%, smaller than the maximum PFDE drawdown of -10.37%. Use the drawdown chart below to compare losses from any high point for GXLC and PFDE.

Drawdown Indicators

	GXLC	PFDE	Difference
Max Drawdown Largest peak-to-trough decline	-9.08%	-10.37%	+1.29%
Current Drawdown Current decline from peak	-2.88%	-3.75%	+0.87%
Average Drawdown Average peak-to-trough decline	-1.50%	-2.04%	+0.54%

Volatility

Volatility by Period

	GXLC	PFDE	Difference
Volatility (1Y) Calculated over the trailing 1-year period	13.63%	16.30%	-2.67%
Volatility (5Y) Calculated over the trailing 5-year period, annualized	13.63%	16.30%	-2.67%
Volatility (10Y) Calculated over the trailing 10-year period, annualized	13.63%	16.30%	-2.67%

GXLC vs. PFDE - Expense Ratio Comparison

GXLC has a 0.02% expense ratio, which is lower than PFDE's 0.59% expense ratio.

Dividends

GXLC vs. PFDE - Dividend Comparison

GXLC's dividend yield for the trailing twelve months is around 0.64%, more than PFDE's 0.11% yield.

Position	TTM	2025
GXLC Global X U.S. 500 ETF	0.64%	0.30%
PFDE Pathfinder Disciplined U.S. Equity ETF	0.11%	0.00%

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hold both GXLC and PFDE in my portfolio?

With a correlation of 0.96, GXLC and PFDE move almost identically. Holding both adds very little diversification - you're essentially doubling your position in the same market segment. Choosing one is usually more capital-efficient.

Which ETF is better, GXLC or PFDE?

On fees, GXLC is cheaper at 0.02% per year. The better choice depends on whether you care most about return, fees, risk, or income.

Which ETF is cheaper, GXLC or PFDE?

GXLC is cheaper with a 0.02% expense ratio, compared with 0.59% for PFDE.

Which ETF pays a higher dividend yield, GXLC or PFDE?

GXLC has the higher dividend yield at 0.64%, compared with 0.11% for PFDE.

What is the main difference between GXLC and PFDE?

They also come from different issuers: Global X and Pathfinder. Their fees differ too: 0.02% for GXLC and 0.59% for PFDE.