What Is the ACEP ETF? Returns, Expense Ratio, Holdings, and Alternative ETFs at a Glance
The ARS Core Equity Portfolio ETF (ACEP) is a core equity ETF that actively selects U.S. large-cap stocks. Its management fee, stock selection strategy, and dividend characteristics are the key criteria when comparing it with dividend-focused alternatives such as SCHD and VIG, and with VOO.
SubscribeWhat Is the ARS Core Equity Portfolio ETF?
It is an actively managed ETF that builds a core equity portfolio centered on U.S. large-cap stocks. Rather than mechanically tracking a specific index, it relies on the management team's selection to decide holdings and weightings.
It suits long-term investors who want core diversification across U.S. large caps along with the stock selection of active management.
The ETF is actively managed by ARS Investment Partners.
How Does the ARS Core Equity Portfolio ETF Invest?
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Tracking Index | None (actively managed) |
| Management Style | Active (stock selection) |
| Rebalancing Frequency | At the management team's discretion |
| Distribution Frequency | Policy needs to be confirmed |
| Total Expense Ratio | 0.46% |
| Manager | ARS Investment Partners |
The management team selects stocks, focusing on U.S. large caps, to build a core equity portfolio. Because it adjusts weightings through discretionary judgment instead of replicating an index, the team's selection effect is layered on top of overall market performance.
- Active stock selection rather than index replication
- Core diversification centered on U.S. large caps
ARS Core Equity Portfolio ETF Size and Costs (AUM and Management Fee)
Assets under management (AUM) stand at $98.1M, and the total expense ratio is 0.46% per year.
Compared with passive core ETFs, it gives managers greater discretion, so differences in fees and performance can emerge accordingly.
ARS Core Equity Portfolio ETF Performance and Trends
1-Year Price Performance
Dividend & Yield
52-Week Price RangeThe ETF reflects the U.S. large-cap market as its core while the management team's selections add to results, so short-term performance depends on both market direction and the effect of stock selection. Given its active nature, performance can diverge from the broader market.
Demand for core equity exposure and a preference for active management are reflected in fund flows. Its size within its category is relatively small compared with large passive core ETFs, so liquidity and trading conditions deserve attention.
ARS Core Equity Portfolio ETF Pros and Cons
Active stock selection and core diversification are its strengths, while relatively high fees and reliance on the management team are points to watch.
💪 Key Strengths
⚠️ Points to Watch
ARS Core Equity Portfolio ETF Alternatives and Related Products
The SCHD, VYM, and DVY shown in the table are large-cap ETFs focused on dividends, and their approach differs from that of this active core product. For pure U.S. large-cap core exposure at a low fee, VOO and SPY, which track the S&P 500, are direct alternatives. For those who put more weight on dividend growth, products such as DGRO can also be considered.
Peer Comparison ETFs| Ticker | Name | Price | Change | AUM | Total Expense Ratio | Dividend Yield | 1Y |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 SCHD | Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF | $35.17 | -0.7% | $120.5B | 0.06% | 2.99% | +32.6% |
 VIG | Vanguard Dividend Appreciation FTF | $243.34 | -0.4% | $114.3B | 0.04% | 1.5% | +13.0% |
 VYM | Vanguard High Dividend Yield Indx ETF | $159.08 | -0.5% | $81.2B | 0.04% | 2.31% | +14.0% |
 DFAC | U.S. Core Equity 2 Portfolio-ETF Class Shares | $43.79 | +0.2% | $48.2B | 0.18% | 0.9% | +13.8% |
 RDVY | First Trust Rising Dividend Achievers ETF | $77.72 | -0.3% | $25.1B | 0.47% | 0.87% | +16.2% |
Top Holdings| Ticker | Name | Weight | Price | Change | Market Cap | P/E | Dividend Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 FAF | First American Financial Corp | 0.13% | $67.01 | -1.7% | $6.8B | 9.4 | 3.46% |
| LRCX | Lam Research Corp | 0.13% | $200.44 | +8.2% | $250.4B | 29.8 | 0.65% |
| STX | Seagate Technology Holdings Plc | 0.12% | $460.99 | -1.2% | $105.8B | 24.2 | 0.67% |
| NEM | Newmont Corp | 0.06% | $120.91 | +1.0% | $125.6B | 14.0 | 0.86% |
| AVGO | Broadcom Inc | 0.05% | $293.69 | +0.7% | $1.40T | 37.5 | 0.89% |
| KLAC | KLA Corp | 0.05% | $138.49 | +6.7% | $180.4B | 34.6 | 0.67% |
| PH | Parker-Hannifin Corp | 0.04% | $917.79 | +2.9% | $115.7B | 31.5 | 0.88% |
ARS Core Equity Portfolio ETF Investor Checkpoints
Here are the points to check before investing in ACEP. As an active core ETF, it is wise to confirm the fee level, management approach, fund size and liquidity, and dividend policy one by one, and to judge whether it fits your investment goals.
| Checkpoint | What to Check | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| 💵 Expense Ratio | Check the level of active management fees | Needs confirmation |
| 🧭 Management Style | Active selection without tracking an index | Remains active |
| 📊 Size and Liquidity | AUM and trading conditions | Relatively small |
| 💱 Exchange Rate | Impact on returns converted to Korean won | No currency hedge |
Given its active nature, performance depends on the managers' selections and may differ from the broader market. Because the fund is relatively small, liquidity and trading costs should also be considered.
It is a candidate for investors who want U.S. large-cap core exposure through active stock selection. If a low-fee core holding is the priority, compare it with VOO and SPY, and if dividends are the focus, with SCHD and similar ETFs, before choosing.
SubscribeDisclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. All investment responsibility lies with the investor.
This article reflects information as of July 2, 2026.
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