When comparing the Alpha Architect 1-3 Month Box ETF (BOXX) and the iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF (SGOV), there are several key factors to consider, including their management style, performance, expense ratios, and tax implications.
Overview of BOXX and SGOV
Management Style:
BOXX: Actively managed by Alpha Architect, launched on December 27, 2022.
SGOV: Passively managed by iShares, tracking the ICE 0-3 Month US Treasury Bill Index, launched on May 26, 2020.
Performance Comparison
Year-to-Date Returns:
BOXX: 4.95%
SGOV: 5.16% [1].
Total Returns:
BOXX has shown a total return of 12.97% since inception, while SGOV has a significantly higher total return of 21.81% [1].
Volatility:
BOXX has a higher volatility of 0.18% compared to SGOV's 0.07%, indicating that BOXX's price experiences larger fluctuations [1].
Expense Ratios
BOXX: 0.20%
SGOV: 0.03% [1].
Both funds are considered low-cost compared to the broader market.
Dividend Yields
BOXX: Approximately 0.26%
SGOV: Approximately 5.11% [1].
SGOV offers a significantly higher yield, making it more attractive for income-focused investors.
Tax Efficiency
BOXX: Utilizes a strategy involving synthetic positions that may provide tax advantages, as gains from options can be taxed more favorably compared to interest from T-bills [3].
SGOV: Interest earned is taxed as ordinary income, which can be less favorable for investors in higher tax brackets [3].
Risk and Drawdowns
Maximum Drawdown:
BOXX: -0.12%
SGOV: -0.03% [1].
This indicates that SGOV has experienced less severe price declines compared to BOXX.
Conclusion
In summary, BOXX and SGOV cater to different investment strategies and preferences. BOXX may appeal to those seeking a potentially more tax-efficient investment with active management, while SGOV is suitable for investors looking for a stable, income-generating option with lower volatility and a higher yield. The choice between the two will depend on individual investment goals, risk tolerance, and tax considerations.