Snack Money: ETF Bites for the Savvy Investor

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Right, let’s talk about food. Not eating food, although frankly, that’s always a good idea. I mean investing in it. Because apparently, people will always need biscuits, even when the world is, you know, doing its thing. So, we’re looking at the Invesco Food & Beverage ETF (PBJ +1.02%) and the First Trust Nasdaq Food & Beverage ETF (FTXG 0.04%). Two ways to get a slice of the pie… or the cake, or whatever sugary treat you’re currently craving. Honestly, I’m judging you a little if it’s kale. This isn’t a health kick; it’s about potential growth. And a little bit of indulgence, let’s be real.

The Nitty Gritty (Because Numbers Aren’t Sexy, But They Matter)

Metric PBJ FTXG
Issuer Invesco First Trust
Expense ratio 0.61% 0.60%
1-yr return (as of Feb. 14, 2026) 7.50% 6.87%
Dividend yield 1.62% 2.60%
Beta 0.55 0.42
AUM $103.9 million $20.10 million

Okay, so they’re remarkably similar. Like, suspiciously so. Expense ratios are basically a coin toss, but FTXG is dangling a slightly sweeter dividend yield. Tempting, isn’t it? It’s the equivalent of someone offering you a free sample. You know you shouldn’t, but… well, free.

Performance & Risk: Let’s Be Honest, It’s a Gamble

Metric PBJ FTXG
Max drawdown (5 y) -15.84% -21.71%
Growth of $1,000 over 5 years $1,296 $925

Right, so here’s where it gets interesting. PBJ, over five years, has actually grown a grand into nearly thirteen hundred. FTXG? A little over nine hundred. That’s… a difference. It’s the difference between a weekend getaway and… well, staying home and ordering takeout. Which, let’s face it, is still a valid option. I’m not judging. Much.

What’s Actually In These Things?

FTXG, with its 31 holdings, is leaning heavily into PepsiCo, Archer-Daniels-Midland, and Mondelez. Solid choices, if you’re a fan of fizzy drinks and chocolate biscuits. PBJ, also 31 stocks, is spreading the love between Hershey, PepsiCo, and Sysco. So, basically, sugar, sugar, and… food service distribution. Look, I’m not saying this is a balanced diet for your portfolio, but it’s certainly… comforting.

For more ETF guidance, here’s a link if you’re feeling particularly studious. Honestly, I’d probably just watch a documentary about penguins. But you do you.

So, Which One? (The Bit Where I Pretend to Be Responsible)

If you’re playing the long game, PBJ has been the better performer. A 31% return over five years versus FTXG’s… well, a decline. Ouch. FTXG’s higher dividend yield is nice, but PBJ is actually paying out more in dividends overall. It’s like getting a slightly bigger slice of cake. And who says no to that?

Top holdings matter, too. PepsiCo leading the charge for FTXG versus Hershey for PBJ. It’s a subtle difference, but it reflects different strategic choices. It’s like choosing between a crisp, refreshing soda and a rich, decadent chocolate bar. Both are good. Both will probably make you feel slightly guilty. But one is definitely more… me.

Ultimately, both ETFs can add stability to your portfolio, especially during economic downturns. People will always need snacks, even when the world is falling apart. It’s a grim thought, but a potentially profitable one. Consumer staples are a classic defensive play. They won’t make you rich overnight, but they might just save you from complete financial ruin. And honestly, at this point, that’s a win.

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2026-02-15 23:53