FTXO vs. IAT: National Banking Giants vs. Regional Lenders -- Which ETF Is the Better Buy?
One focuses on big bank stocks and has stronger five-year returns; the other targets regional lenders and has lower fees.
Overview
The First Trust Nasdaq Bank ETF (NASDAQ:FTXO) and the iShares U.S. Regional Banks ETF (NYSEMKT:IAT) both give investors exposure to the financial sector, but they take different roads to get there. One leans on national banking giants, while the other sticks exclusively to regional lenders. The result: one fund has delivered stronger five-year returns with less volatility, while the other carries lower fees and pays a higher dividend.
Beta measures price volatility relative to the S&P 500; beta is calculated from five-year monthly returns. The 1-year return represents total return over the trailing 12 months. Dividend yield is the trailing-12-month distribution yield.
Details
IAT is the cheaper option, charging an expense ratio of 0.38% compared to FTXO's 0.60% -- a meaningful gap for cost-conscious investors. IAT also pays a higher dividend, making it more attractive for income-focused portfolios.
Source
Originally published at www.fool.com.