

When comparing the Fidelity 500 Index Fund (FXAIX) with the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO), several factors should be considered to determine which fund may be a better investment for you. Here's a detailed comparison:
- Expense Ratios: FXAIX has a lower expense ratio of 0.015%, compared to VOO's 0.030%. A lower expense ratio means FXAIX charges less in fees, potentially resulting in higher returns over time1.
- Investment Method: FXAIX is a mutual fund that does not trade throughout the day. Investors purchase shares at the end of each trading day at the net asset value (NAV). VOO, on the other hand, is an ETF that trades like a stock, allowing for buying and selling throughout the day1.
- Diversification and Performance: Both funds aim to track the S&P 500 index, ensuring exposure to a diverse range of large-cap U.S. stocks. FXAIX is considered one of the cheapest ways to hold the 500 stocks in the S&P 500 index1. VOO also tracks the same index but with a slightly higher expense ratio1.
- Market Outlook and Fund Strengths: The outlook for the S&P 500, as indicated by Société Générale, suggests that profits are a key driver for the index's performance, which could benefit both funds2. However, the breadth of EPS revisions is more positive for 2024, which could be a confidence booster for investors2.
- Investor Considerations: FXAIX is accessible to a broad audience, including novice investors, with no minimum investment requirement1. VOO offers the flexibility of being traded like a stock, which can be advantageous for investors looking for intraday trading opportunities1.
In conclusion, the choice between FXAIX and VOO should align with your investment preferences, risk tolerance, and financial goals. If lower fees are a priority and you are comfortable with a mutual fund structure, FXAIX might be the better fit. If you prefer the trading flexibility of an ETF, VOO could be the more suitable option. It's also worth noting that both funds are solid choices for tracking the S&P 500, and the overall market conditions and fund performance will play a role in determining which one outperforms in the future.
