S&P 500 vs Nasdaq 100: which wins over 10 years of investing?

This compares, side by side, the results of investing the same monthly amount in the S&P 500 (SPY) and the Nasdaq 100 (QQQ) over the same period (2014–2024).

Investment conditions

Asset · S&P 500 ETF (SPY) vs Nasdaq 100 ETF (QQQ) · $220/month each

Method · Comparison

The Nasdaq 100 often shows a higher cumulative return, but it also falls harder in downturns. 'Higher return' and 'bigger swings' usually come together. Open the comparison calculator below to see both assets' maximum drawdown and recovery periods side by side.

Open in comparison calculator

Why this period and asset

'Diversify or concentrate?' is an old question for long-term investors. The S&P 500 spreads broadly across 500 large caps, while the Nasdaq 100 concentrates in tech. The decade from 2014 made the difference between these two indexes clear in both returns and drawdowns.

Caveats & limits

Figures use adjusted close and exclude exchange rates, fees, and taxes. This is the result of one specific past decade and does not imply either one will be better in the future.

Data sources & limits

Trading fees and taxes are not reflected — figures are pre-tax.
Based on historical data; does not guarantee future returns.

Frequently asked questions

Which is the better investment?

This page recommends neither. It matters to consider not just return but also maximum drawdown and volatility, and to judge by the size of swings you can actually tolerate.

How is the comparison calculated?

Both assets are computed by the same engine under the same period and amount. Use the button above to open the comparison calculator for detailed identical-condition results.

Are dividends, FX, and taxes reflected?

Dividends and splits are reflected via adjusted close, but exchange rates, trading fees, and taxes are not.

Do past results hold for the future?

No. This only shows historical data and does not guarantee or predict future performance.

Related scenarios

📋 結果は過去のデータに基づくものです。過去のリターンは将来のリターンを保証しません。

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⚠️ 資産ごとにボラティリティやリスク水準が異なるため、リターンだけでどちらが優れているかは判断できません。