Generated September 26, 2026.
Overview
SCHG and SPMO are both large-cap equity ETFs tracking broad U.S. stock indexes, but they differ fundamentally in selection methodology. SCHG tracks the Dow Jones U.S. Large-Cap Growth Index, holding the 750 largest companies classified as growth stocks by market-cap weighting. SPMO targets the S&P 500 Momentum Index, which selects the highest-momentum names within the S&P 500 using factor scoring rather than size alone. The key distinction: SCHG is a pure-play growth index fund, while SPMO is a momentum factor tilt of the S&P 500.
How they differ
SPMO's momentum-selection strategy produces higher beta and a tighter universe (500 names ranked by momentum) compared to SCHG's broader growth cohort of 750 stocks weighted by market cap. This difference in methodology shows up in returns sensitivity: SPMO carries a 1.35 beta versus SCHG's 1.22, indicating SPMO amplifies market moves more sharply. Both pay distributions quarterly. On costs, SCHG is the clear winner at 0.04% versus 0.13%, a difference that compounds over decades. SCHG also commands a much larger asset base at $64.3B compared to $23.2B, reflecting its longer history—SCHG launched 16 years, while SPMO arrived 10 years.
Who each is best for
- SCHG: Fits investors seeking broad exposure to large-cap U.S. growth stocks with minimal fees and straightforward index tracking. The low expense ratio and massive AUM suit buy-and-hold portfolios built on simplicity.
- SPMO: Designed for investors comfortable with factor-tilted exposure who believe momentum has historically rewarded concentrated bets within the S&P 500. The higher beta appeals to those with longer time horizons who can tolerate wider swings.
Key risks to know
- Factor concentration and cyclicality: Momentum factors tend to underperform significantly during value rallies and market reversals. SPMO's tighter universe of high-momentum names may lag for extended periods when sentiment shifts or growth leadership cools.
- Higher volatility: SPMO's 1.35 beta means a 10% market decline could translate to a larger percentage loss for SPMO than for SCHG, creating drawdown risk in recession scenarios.
- Growth-style exposure overlap: Both funds skew heavily toward growth characteristics. Their holdings may overlap substantially, meaning diversification between them is limited—a single market headwind affecting growth multiples would stress both positions simultaneously.
- Expense ratio creep: While SCHG's 0.04% is negligible, SPMO's 0.13% will compound into material drag over 20+ years, particularly if momentum factor performance trails broad growth.
Bottom line
If you want a core large-cap growth holding with minimal fees and maximum simplicity, SCHG stands out. If you're willing to accept higher volatility and factor-timing risk in exchange for momentum exposure, SPMO warrants consideration—but verify that the 0.64% yield and momentum discipline justify the 0.13% expense ratio and 1.35 beta relative to your existing portfolio. 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.