Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF

FSTA

Market cap $1.38B

Defensive stocks are defined as the stocks in companies that are grouped in sectors supplying goods and services in constant demand as essentials, and thus, do not follow trends of popularity.

FSTA is a low-cost fund holding stocks classified as Consumer Staples sector under GICS. Historically, it's delivered competitive returns and risk-adjusted returns with more popular peers like VDC and XLP. However, the Consumer Staples sector itself is struggling. Compared to other Fidelity MSCI Index Sector ETFs, FSTA has only outperformed Energy since its inception in late 2013. A returns distribution analysis highlights FSTA's balanced profile, though large monthly returns were incredibly unlikely, leading it to substantially underperform other sectors in this long-running bull market.

Both ETFs offer identical ultra-low expense ratios, but State Street Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF delivers a slightly higher yield. XLP is far larger and more liquid than Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF, though both cover the same defensive sector.

Retail-focused ETFs could benefit as a record 158.9 million shoppers hit stores and online on Super Saturday, boosting late-season sales momentum.

VDC and FSTA track similar consumer staples sectors with nearly identical performance and yields VDC commands much larger assets under management (AUM) and has a longer track record than FSTA Both funds show similar risk profiles and top holdings, but VDC's fund longevity may appeal to some investors These 10 Stocks Could Mint the Next Wave of Millionaires ›

VDC has a much larger asset base than FSTA. Both ETFs charge nearly identical expense ratios and offer similar dividend yields.

Launched on October 21, 2013, the Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF (FSTA) is a passively managed exchange traded fund designed to provide a broad exposure to the Consumer Staples - Broad segment of the equity market.

Vanguard's VDC manages a much larger asset pool and has a longer track record than FSTA. Both ETFs deliver nearly identical sector exposure, performance, and dividend yields.

XLP and FSTA both target U.S. consumer staples. However, XLP offers a higher yield and much greater assets under management.

Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF is rated a buy for its stable, profitable top holdings and defensive sector positioning. FSTA offers low fees (0.08% expense ratio), a solid 2.21% dividend yield, and broad diversification compared to peer consumer staples ETFs. Key holdings—Walmart, Costco, and Procter & Gamble—demonstrate strong revenue, dividend growth, and resilience despite elevated valuations.