What Is ETF Tracking Difference? Formula and Worked Example
ETF tracking difference is the fund's total return minus the total return of the benchmark it is designed to track over the same period. A result of -0.28 percentage points means the ETF underperformed its benchmark by 28 basis points. Use the calculator below, then apply the comparison checklist before treating the result as meaningful. ETF Tracking Difference Calculator Enter total returns for exactly the same period. For an ETF comparison, NAV total return is usually more useful than market-price return because it measures the portfolio rather than an investor's execution price. ETF total return (%) Benchmark total return (%) Illustrative investment (USD) Calculate tracking difference Percentage-point difference -0.28 pp Basis-point difference -28 bps Illustrative return gap -$280 The ETF underperformed the benchmark over the entered period. JavaScript is required for the interactive calculator. Subtract the benchmark total return from the ETF tot...