
Cancel anytime
- Chart
- Upturn Summary
- Highlights
Upturn AI SWOT
- About
First Trust Morningstar Dividend Leaders Index Fund (FDL)



- BUY Advisory
- SELL Advisory (Profit)
- SELL Advisory (Loss)
- Profit
- Loss
- Pass (Skip investing)


(see disclosures)
- ALL
- YEAR
- MONTH
- WEEK
Upturn Advisory Summary
07/25/2025: FDL (1-star) has a low Upturn Star Rating. Not recommended to BUY.
Analysis of Past Performance
Type ETF | Historic Profit 11.13% | Avg. Invested days 56 | Today’s Advisory Consider higher Upturn Star rating |
Upturn Star Rating ![]() ![]() | Upturn Advisory Performance ![]() | ETF Returns Performance ![]() |
![]() ![]() | ![]() ![]() |
Key Highlights
Volume (30-day avg) - | Beta 0.8 | 52 Weeks Range 35.74 - 43.50 | Updated Date 06/29/2025 |
52 Weeks Range 35.74 - 43.50 | Updated Date 06/29/2025 |
Upturn AI SWOT
First Trust Morningstar Dividend Leaders Index Fund
ETF Overview
Overview
The First Trust Morningstar Dividend Leaders Index Fund (FDL) seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield of the Morningstaru00ae Dividend Leaders IndexSM. It primarily focuses on dividend-paying companies, allocating assets across various sectors, with a strategy of selecting stocks with consistent dividend payments and strong financial health.
Reputation and Reliability
First Trust is a well-established ETF provider with a solid reputation in the market. They are known for their innovative and thematic ETF offerings.
Management Expertise
First Trust has a team of experienced investment professionals dedicated to managing their ETF lineup, including those focused on dividend strategies.
Investment Objective
Goal
The fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield of the Morningstaru00ae Dividend Leaders IndexSM.
Investment Approach and Strategy
Strategy: The fund tracks the Morningstaru00ae Dividend Leaders IndexSM, which focuses on high dividend-yielding companies with a history of consistent dividend payments.
Composition The ETF primarily holds stocks of dividend-paying companies. Sector allocation varies based on the index methodology.
Market Position
Market Share: FDL's market share in the dividend ETF sector is significant, but influenced by larger competitors.
Total Net Assets (AUM): 1220000000
Competitors
Key Competitors
- Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG)
- Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD)
- iShares Select Dividend ETF (DVY)
Competitive Landscape
The dividend ETF market is highly competitive. FDL distinguishes itself through its specific index methodology focusing on dividend sustainability. However, competitors like VIG and SCHD have larger AUM and potentially lower expense ratios, offering a broader appeal. FDL's advantage lies in its rigorous dividend screening process.
Financial Performance
Historical Performance: Historical performance varies with market conditions; see financial websites for up-to-date figures.
Benchmark Comparison: Performance should be compared against the Morningstaru00ae Dividend Leaders IndexSM to gauge effectiveness.
Expense Ratio: 0.45
Liquidity
Average Trading Volume
The average trading volume of FDL indicates moderate liquidity, sufficient for most investors.
Bid-Ask Spread
The bid-ask spread is generally tight, reflecting good liquidity and lower trading costs.
Market Dynamics
Market Environment Factors
Economic indicators, interest rate movements, and sector-specific trends influence FDL's performance.
Growth Trajectory
Growth trends are tied to the dividend-paying stock market and investor demand for income-generating assets; changes in holdings reflect index rebalancing.
Moat and Competitive Advantages
Competitive Edge
FDLu2019s competitive advantage lies in its rigorous screening process focusing on dividend sustainability using Morningstar's proprietary dividend ratings, thus potentially mitigating dividend cut risk. Its index methodology prioritizes companies with a strong history of dividend payments and sound financial health. This approach differentiates it from broader dividend ETFs that may include companies with less stable dividend profiles. The fund's focused strategy may attract investors seeking higher-quality dividend income.
Risk Analysis
Volatility
Historical volatility can be assessed using standard deviation measures from financial data providers.
Market Risk
Market risk includes fluctuations in equity markets and potential declines in dividend payments from underlying holdings.
Investor Profile
Ideal Investor Profile
The ideal investor is seeking a steady stream of dividend income and is comfortable with moderate risk associated with equity investments.
Market Risk
FDL is best suited for long-term investors looking for passive income and dividend growth.
Summary
First Trust Morningstar Dividend Leaders Index Fund (FDL) is designed for investors seeking dividend income by tracking the Morningstaru00ae Dividend Leaders IndexSM. It focuses on companies with a strong history of dividend payments and sound financials. While it faces competition from larger dividend ETFs, its rigorous screening process offers a unique approach. FDL is a suitable option for long-term investors seeking a reliable income stream from dividend-paying stocks, though investors should consider its expense ratio and performance relative to its benchmark and competitors.
Peer Comparison
Sources and Disclaimers
Data Sources:
- First Trust Website
- Morningstar
- Yahoo Finance
- ETF.com
Disclaimers:
This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Investors should conduct their own research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Data is based on available information and may be subject to change.
AI Summarization is directionally correct and might not be accurate.
Summarized information shown could be a few years old and not current.
Fundamental Rating based on AI could be based on old data.
AI-generated summaries may have inaccuracies (hallucinations). Please verify the information before taking action.
About First Trust Morningstar Dividend Leaders Index Fund
Exchange NYSE ARCA | Headquaters - | ||
IPO Launch date - | CEO - | ||
Sector - | Industry - | Full time employees - | Website |
Full time employees - | Website |
The fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets (including investment borrowings) in the securities that comprise the index. The index is designed to measure the performance of the 100 highest-yielding stocks that have a consistent record of dividend payment and have the ability to sustain their dividend payments. It is non-diversified.

Note: This website is maintained by Upturn Corporation, which is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Such registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Investing in securities has risks. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. No assurance is provided as to any particular investment return, and you may lose money using our services. You are strongly advised to consult appropriate counsel before making any investments in companies you learn about through our services. You should obtain appropriate legal, tax, investment, accounting, and other advice that takes into account your investment portfolio and overall financial situation. You are solely responsible for conducting due diligence on a potential investment. We do not affect trades for you. You will select your own broker through which to transact. Investments are not FDIC insured, they are not guaranteed, and they may lose value. Please see the Privacy Policy, Terms of Use, and Disclosure for more information.