Generated September 19, 2026.
Overview
FDMO and SPMO are both equity ETFs capturing momentum factor exposure, but they differ fundamentally in scope and methodology. FDMO applies Fidelity's active momentum selection across the entire market, while SPMO tracks the S&P 500 Momentum Index—meaning it captures momentum only within the large-cap 500 universe. The choice between them hinges on whether you want broad-market momentum exposure or large-cap momentum specifically.
How they differ
The biggest difference is universe: SPMO is confined to S&P 500 constituents, while FDMO can hold mid-cap, small-cap, and large-cap stocks wherever momentum appears. SPMO is an index fund (0.13% expense ratio) tracking a defined benchmark; FDMO uses active selection (0.15% expense ratio). SPMO is substantially larger at $22.1B versus FDMO's $883M, reflecting its index-based appeal. Both trade quarterly distributions at similar yields—0.64% for FDMO and 0.66% for SPMO—but SPMO carries higher beta (1.35 vs. 1.19), meaning it amplifies market swings more aggressively.
Who each is best for
- FDMO: Fits investors seeking broad-based momentum exposure unconstrained by market capitalization, willing to accept active management fees and selection risk in exchange for potential outperformance across the full equity spectrum.
- SPMO: Designed for investors who want momentum factor exposure anchored to large-cap stability, prefer transparent index replication, and accept the tradeoff of missing mid- and small-cap momentum opportunities in exchange for lower costs and established benchmark tracking.
Key risks to know
- Momentum factor reversion: Both funds concentrate in stocks displaying recent price strength, which can underperform sharply during style rotations when value or defensive factors outperform. Momentum's historical outperformance is cyclical, not permanent.
- Higher beta amplifies downturns: SPMO's 1.35 beta and FDMO's 1.19 beta both exceed 1.0, meaning these funds will likely fall faster than the broad market in corrections. This is inherent to momentum selection, not a flaw, but it matters for drawdown tolerance.
- SPMO's index constraint: By limiting itself to the S&P 500, SPMO forgoes potential outperformance in mid-cap and small-cap momentum leaders. If those segments deliver stronger momentum returns, SPMO's index methodology locks it out.
- FDMO's active risk: Active selection introduces tracking error and manager-dependent performance. If Fidelity's momentum process underperforms its benchmark in a given period, the fee advantage evaporates.
Bottom line
If you want momentum exposure across all market capitalizations and believe active selection can justify its modest fee premium, FDMO offers broader scope. If you prefer index simplicity, lower costs, and are comfortable limiting momentum exposure to large-cap names, SPMO's $22.1B asset base and transparent methodology stand out. Both funds carry momentum's inherent timing risk—factor outperformance is not guaranteed, and both have underperformed during prolonged value-dominated markets. Past performance does not predict future results.
AI-generated analysis for educational purposes only. Verify important details independently; past performance does not guarantee future results.