Is MQAE a good ETF?
MQAE is the Macquarie Core Australian Equity Active ETF. It tracks the S&P/ASX 200 Index. We classify it under AU and Large-Cap. With about $1.2 billion in assets it is a large, highly liquid fund. Listed on the ASX since 2023-10-18 (almost 3 years ago).
On a total-return basis, MQAE has delivered 5.52% a year over 1 year (ranked 179th of 308 ETFs we track).
The management fee of 0.03% is very low — typical of low-cost index funds. That's cheaper than the typical 0.3% for similar ETFs. It pays a moderate 2.55% yield.
Portfolio turnover is high at about 55% a year — most of the portfolio is traded over a year, realising capital gains regularly and adding a noticeable tax drag — something to weigh if you hold it in a taxable account.
Strengths
- Low-cost: a 0.03% management fee keeps more of the return in your pocket.
Things to watch
- High portfolio turnover (55% a year) means frequent trading that realises capital gains, adding tax drag — less efficient than a low-turnover index fund.
Good to know
- Distributions are 78% franked, a tax bonus for Australian residents.
- Australian focus means franked dividends and no currency risk, but heavy concentration in banks and miners.
What MQAE's categories mean for you
How each category this ETF belongs to tends to behave across market cycles.
Australian shares. Home-market familiarity, fully franked dividends and no currency risk for local investors — but very concentrated in banks and miners, which dominate the index.
- Market regime
- Sensitive to commodity prices, Chinese demand and domestic interest rates. Generous income, but narrow sector diversification.
- In a portfolio
- A natural core for Australian investors thanks to franking, but should be paired with global exposure so you aren't over-reliant on a handful of banks and resource giants.
The biggest, most established companies. More stable earnings, lower volatility and often steadier dividends than the broad market.
- Market regime
- Holds up comparatively well in downturns and uncertain markets; tends to lag small-caps and growth during the most aggressive bull runs.
- In a portfolio
- A dependable core building block suited to long-term holding.
General information only, generated from the fund's published data — not personal financial advice. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. Consider your own circumstances or seek licensed advice before investing.