QCLN vs. GRID
Compare and contrast key facts about First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Green Energy Index Fund (QCLN) and First Trust Nasdaq Clean Edge Smart GRID Infrastructure Index (GRID).
QCLN and GRID are both exchange-traded funds (ETFs), meaning they are traded on stock exchanges and can be bought and sold throughout the day. QCLN is a passively managed fund by First Trust that tracks the performance of the NASDAQ Clean Edge Green Energy. It was launched on Feb 8, 2007. GRID is a passively managed fund by First Trust that tracks the performance of the NASDAQ OMX Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index. It was launched on Nov 17, 2009. Both QCLN and GRID are passive ETFs, meaning that they are not actively managed but aim to replicate the performance of the underlying index as closely as possible.
Scroll down to visually compare performance, riskiness, drawdowns, and other indicators and decide which better suits your portfolio: QCLN or GRID.
Key characteristics
| QCLN | GRID | |
|---|---|---|
| YTD Return | -18.45% | 9.87% |
| 1Y Return | -20.59% | 21.62% |
| 3Y Return (Ann) | -16.98% | 11.03% |
| 5Y Return (Ann) | 10.41% | 21.40% |
| 10Y Return (Ann) | 7.14% | 13.58% |
| Sharpe Ratio | -0.62 | 1.33 |
| Daily Std Dev | 33.96% | 15.90% |
| Max Drawdown | -76.18% | -40.55% |
| Current Drawdown | -60.61% | 0.00% |
Correlation
The correlation between QCLN and GRID is 0.66, which is considered to be moderate. This suggests that the two assets have some degree of positive relationship in their price movements. Moderate correlation can be acceptable for portfolio diversification, offering a balance between risk and potential returns.
Performance
QCLN vs. GRID - Performance Comparison
In the year-to-date period, QCLN achieves a -18.45% return, which is significantly lower than GRID's 9.87% return. Over the past 10 years, QCLN has underperformed GRID with an annualized return of 7.14%, while GRID has yielded a comparatively higher 13.58% annualized return. The chart below displays the growth of a $10,000 investment in both assets, with all prices adjusted for splits and dividends.
Compare stocks, funds, or ETFs
Search for stocks, ETFs, and funds for a quick comparison or use the comparison tool for more options.
QCLN vs. GRID - Expense Ratio Comparison
QCLN has a 0.60% expense ratio, which is lower than GRID's 0.70% expense ratio.
Risk-Adjusted Performance
QCLN vs. GRID - Risk-Adjusted Performance Comparison
This table presents a comparison of risk-adjusted performance metrics for First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Green Energy Index Fund (QCLN) and First Trust Nasdaq Clean Edge Smart GRID Infrastructure Index (GRID). 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.
Dividends
QCLN vs. GRID - Dividend Comparison
QCLN's dividend yield for the trailing twelve months is around 0.78%, less than GRID's 1.14% yield.
| TTM | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
QCLN First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Green Energy Index Fund | 0.78% | 0.76% | 0.33% | 0.01% | 0.30% | 0.85% | 1.03% | 0.45% | 1.24% | 0.72% | 0.79% | 0.41% |
GRID First Trust Nasdaq Clean Edge Smart GRID Infrastructure Index | 1.14% | 1.23% | 1.26% | 0.63% | 0.68% | 1.26% | 1.28% | 1.07% | 1.07% | 1.23% | 1.46% | 1.35% |
Drawdowns
QCLN vs. GRID - Drawdown Comparison
The maximum QCLN drawdown since its inception was -76.18%, which is greater than GRID's maximum drawdown of -40.55%. Use the drawdown chart below to compare losses from any high point for QCLN and GRID. For additional features, visit the drawdowns tool.
Volatility
QCLN vs. GRID - Volatility Comparison
First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Green Energy Index Fund (QCLN) has a higher volatility of 10.16% compared to First Trust Nasdaq Clean Edge Smart GRID Infrastructure Index (GRID) at 4.83%. This indicates that QCLN's price experiences larger fluctuations and is considered to be riskier than GRID based on this measure. The chart below showcases a comparison of their rolling one-month volatility.