PPA vs MISL: Which Aerospace & Defense ETF Wins?
💡 Key Takeaway
Invesco's PPA outperforms First Trust's MISL with better returns, lower fees, and a more diversified portfolio over the long term.
Invesco vs. First Trust: Aerospace & Defense ETF Showdown
The article compares two popular aerospace and defense ETFs: the Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF (PPA) and the First Trust Indxx Aerospace & Defense ETF (MISL). PPA has been around since 2005, while MISL launched in 2022.
PPA has a larger asset base ($8.6 billion) and a slightly lower expense ratio (0.58% vs. 0.60%). Its top holdings include Boeing (8.7%), GE Aerospace (8.3%), and RTX (6.9%). MISL's top holdings are Palantir Technologies (largest), Boeing (8%), and Rocket Lab (7.9%).
Performance-wise, PPA has outpaced MISL over both 1-year (25.2% vs. 22.9%) and 3-year (28.8% vs. 26.1%) periods. The article notes that PPA is more diversified (55% in top 10 vs. 62% for MISL) and offers some international exposure (Israel), while MISL is all U.S.
The article concludes that while both funds are solid, the Invesco fund gets the nod for better performance and portfolio construction.
Why The ETF Choice Matters
Investors looking for exposure to the aerospace and defense sector often turn to ETFs for diversification and ease of trading. The choice between PPA and MISL can significantly impact returns, fees, and risk exposure.
PPA's longer track record and larger AUM provide greater liquidity and stability, which is important during volatile defense cycles. Its lower fee and higher yield (0.40% vs. 0.30%) also add up over time.
MISL's heavier tilt toward technology (17.8% vs. 6%) means it offers more exposure to defense tech and space startups, but also higher concentration risk. For investors seeking pure-play aerospace and defense with a proven track record, PPA appears superior.
The article's support for PPA reinforces the idea that established, well-constructed ETFs often outperform newer, more concentrated offerings, even in trending sectors.
Source: The Motley Fool
Analysis generated by Bobby AI quantitative model, reviewed and edited by our research team. This is not financial advice. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.
Bobby Insight
PPA is the better buy for most investors seeking stable, diversified aerospace and defense exposure.
PPA's longer track record, larger AUM, lower expense ratio, and superior performance make it a more reliable choice. MISL may appeal to those wanting more tech and space exposure, but its higher concentration and shorter history introduce more risk.
What This Means for Me
