Generated July 2026 from current fund data.
Overview
Both QNDX and SCHG are large-cap growth ETFs tracking U.S. equity indexes, but they differ in scope and underlying construction. QNDX tracks the Nasdaq-100 (100 mega-cap stocks, heavily weighted to technology), while SCHG tracks the Dow Jones U.S. Large-Cap Growth Total Stock Market Index (a broader universe of large-cap growth stocks). The key tradeoff: concentrated tech exposure versus diversified large-cap growth.
How they differ
QNDX's biggest distinction is its Nasdaq-100 focus, which gives it a concentrated tilt toward technology mega-caps—think Apple, Microsoft, Tesla, Nvidia. SCHG casts a wider net across large-cap growth stocks across all sectors using the Dow Jones index methodology, offering more sector diversity. SCHG also has a lower expense ratio (0.04% versus 0.10%) and a much larger asset base ($58.4B versus $24.9M), translating to better liquidity and lower trading costs in practice. QNDX distributes quarterly at a slightly higher rate (implicitly from its tax treatment), while SCHG distributes at 0.39% annually; neither is a yield play. Finally, SCHG carries a reported beta of 1.21, reflecting its sensitivity to market swings relative to the broad market.
Who each is best for
QNDX: Investors comfortable with a concentrated bet on mega-cap technology and are willing to accept the sector concentration that comes with Nasdaq-100 exposure. Fits strategies that deliberately overweight the largest software, semiconductor, and internet companies.
SCHG: Investors seeking broad large-cap growth exposure across all sectors with lower fees and deeper liquidity. Aligns with core growth allocations where diversification across sectors is a priority over thematic concentration.
Key risks to know
- Concentration risk in QNDX: The Nasdaq-100's top holdings represent a significant portion of the index. A downturn in mega-cap tech has outsized impact on QNDX relative to a diversified large-cap fund.
- Sector cyclicality: Both funds carry large-cap growth exposure, which underperforms during periods when value or defensive sectors lead. QNDX's tech tilt amplifies this cyclical risk.
- Valuation sensitivity: Large-cap growth stocks are historically more sensitive to rising interest rates and multiple compression. Both funds' NAVs can swing materially during rate-driven market corrections.
- QNDX's limited track record and size: Launched in mid-2026 with only $24.9M in assets, QNDX has minimal operating history and liquidity compared to SCHG's 15-year track record and $58.4B in AUM. Early-stage ETFs carry closure or structural risk if assets don't grow.
Bottom line
If you want concentrated exposure to mega-cap technology, QNDX delivers it at a tight 0.10% expense ratio but sacrifices diversification and carries structural immaturity risk. If you prioritize broad large-cap growth with lower fees, deeper liquidity, and a longer operating history, SCHG's 0.04% expense ratio and $58.4B asset base stand out. Neither is designed for income; both are core growth vehicles. Past performance does not predict future results.
AI-generated analysis for educational purposes only. Verify important details independently; past performance does not guarantee future results.