XLK Offers Broader Tech Diversification, While SOXX Targets Semiconductor Stocks. Which Is the Better Investment?

Core Insights - The iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) focuses specifically on the semiconductor sector, while the State Street Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLK) provides diversified exposure across the entire technology sector [2][8] Cost & Size - SOXX has an expense ratio of 0.34% and assets under management (AUM) of $17 billion, while XLK has a lower expense ratio of 0.08% and AUM of $93 billion [3][4] - Both funds have similar dividend yields, with SOXX at 0.55% and XLK at 0.53% [4] Performance & Risk Comparison - Over the past five years, a $1,000 investment in SOXX would have grown to $2,483, compared to $2,220 for XLK [5] - SOXX experienced a maximum drawdown of -45.75%, while XLK had a lower maximum drawdown of -33.56%, indicating higher risk for SOXX due to its narrower focus [5] Holdings Overview - XLK tracks the Technology Select Sector Index, including 70 leading U.S. technology stocks, with top holdings like Nvidia, Apple, and Microsoft making up nearly 40% of its assets [6][7] - SOXX is concentrated on the semiconductor industry, holding only 30 companies, with major positions in Nvidia, Advanced Micro Devices, and Micron Technology [7]