NKE vs SPY: NIKE, Inc. vs SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust Historical Returns & Investment Comparison
This NKE vs SPY comparison analyzes the historical stock performance of NIKE, Inc. and SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust side-by-side. Using real, adjusted market data, this tool shows how identical investments in both stocks would have performed over time—highlighting differences in returns, volatility, and consistency across market cycles.
Use the interactive calculator below to adjust the investment amount and time period, visualizing how NIKE, Inc. and SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust have historically performed against each other.
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Performance Summary
$10,000 invested from 1986 to 2025 (40 years)
Head-to-Head Record
Over the 33-year comparison period, NIKE, Inc. outperformed SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust in 21 years, while SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust outperformed NIKE, Inc. in 12 years.
NKE - NIKE, Inc.
SPY - SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust
Overall Winner: NKE with an average annual return of 21.30% (vs 11.71% for SPY)
Understanding NKE vs SPY Performance
When comparing NIKE, Inc. and SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust, investors should consider multiple factors beyond just total returns. Volatility, consistency of growth, dividend payments, and sector-specific risks all play crucial roles in determining which stock might be better suited for your investment strategy and risk tolerance.
Historical performance data shows how each stock responded to market downturns, economic expansions, and company-specific events. While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, understanding these patterns can help inform investment decisions and portfolio allocation strategies.
Cumulative Growth Comparison
A $10,000 investment in NIKE, Inc. grew to $4,169,507, compared to $250,597 for SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust over the same period.
Year-by-Year Comparison
| Year | NKE Return | NKE Cumulative | SPY Return | SPY Cumulative | Difference | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1986 (Start) | - | $10,000.00 | - | $10,000.00 | - | Initial Investment |
| 1987 | -14.55% | $8,545.46 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1988 | +67.38% | $14,303.55 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1989 | +40.07% | $20,034.39 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1990 | +102.03% | $40,475.38 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1991 | +44.92% | $58,658.91 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1992 | +81.21% | $106,294.50 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1993 | +14.42% | $121,620.36 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1994 | -44.35% | $67,681.30 | +8.71% | $10,870.91 | -53.06% (SPY) | SPY |
| 1995 | +59.91% | $108,229.31 | +0.67% | $10,943.47 | +59.24% (NKE) | NKE |
| 1996 | +93.75% | $209,689.46 | +37.39% | $15,035.16 | +56.36% (NKE) | NKE |
| 1997 | +69.09% | $354,564.88 | +21.20% | $18,223.19 | +47.89% (NKE) | NKE |
| 1998 | -34.23% | $233,205.30 | +33.14% | $24,261.81 | -67.36% (SPY) | SPY |
| 1999 | +1.84% | $237,488.76 | +28.03% | $31,063.11 | -26.20% (SPY) | SPY |
| 2000 | +20.53% | $286,246.77 | +20.66% | $37,482.18 | -0.13% (SPY) | SPY |
| 2001 | +16.70% | $334,052.21 | -8.85% | $34,165.23 | +25.55% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2002 | +4.47% | $348,990.16 | -10.13% | $30,703.75 | +14.60% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2003 | -21.47% | $274,077.73 | -22.42% | $23,820.14 | +0.95% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2004 | +49.33% | $409,273.31 | +24.18% | $29,580.86 | +25.14% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2005 | +34.87% | $551,993.48 | +10.75% | $32,760.13 | +24.12% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2006 | -3.69% | $531,613.01 | +5.32% | $34,504.59 | -9.02% (SPY) | SPY |
| 2007 | +16.09% | $617,155.88 | +13.84% | $39,281.03 | +2.25% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2008 | +33.12% | $821,582.08 | +5.33% | $41,375.53 | +27.79% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2009 | -18.13% | $672,639.27 | -36.24% | $26,382.38 | +18.11% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2010 | +26.91% | $853,666.81 | +22.65% | $32,359.23 | +4.26% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2011 | +32.69% | $1,132,703.82 | +13.14% | $36,610.39 | +19.55% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2012 | +13.59% | $1,286,646.66 | +0.85% | $36,922.44 | +12.74% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2013 | +8.17% | $1,391,779.40 | +14.17% | $42,154.69 | -6.00% (SPY) | SPY |
| 2014 | +53.78% | $2,140,338.61 | +29.00% | $54,380.19 | +24.78% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2015 | +24.39% | $2,662,314.92 | +14.56% | $62,298.86 | +9.83% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2016 | +32.94% | $3,539,175.18 | +1.29% | $63,101.60 | +31.65% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2017 | -16.39% | $2,959,118.04 | +13.59% | $71,674.43 | -29.98% (SPY) | SPY |
| 2018 | +21.94% | $3,608,376.88 | +20.78% | $86,569.38 | +1.16% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2019 | +18.09% | $4,261,257.05 | -5.25% | $82,026.91 | +23.34% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2020 | +38.24% | $5,890,900.24 | +31.09% | $107,527.02 | +7.16% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2021 | +39.74% | $8,232,169.78 | +17.24% | $126,059.55 | +22.51% (NKE) | NKE |
| 2022 | +19.86% | $9,867,043.55 | +30.51% | $164,514.60 | -10.65% (SPY) | SPY |
| 2023 | -28.18% | $7,086,580.75 | -18.65% | $133,838.54 | -9.53% (SPY) | SPY |
| 2024 | -7.39% | $6,562,821.30 | +26.71% | $169,585.78 | -34.10% (SPY) | SPY |
| 2025 | -27.76% | $4,740,754.11 | +25.59% | $212,981.61 | -53.35% (SPY) | SPY |
| 2026 | -12.05% | $4,169,506.69 | +17.66% | $250,597.02 | -29.71% (SPY) | SPY |
Annual returns include dividends and stock splits. Cumulative values show growth of $10,000 invested from the first year. Positive difference means NKE outperformed SPY that year.
Company Profiles
NIKE, Inc.
NKE
NIKE, Inc. is the world's leading designer, marketer, and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Originally founded as Blue Ribbon Sports, the company has evolved into a global icon synonymous with athletic excellence and innovation. As of 2026, Nike is executing its 'Win Now' strategic turnaround under the leadership of CEO Elliott Hill, focusing on a 'Sport Offense' that reunites innovation, design, and product teams to accelerate performance-driven growth. The company operates a multi-brand portfolio including the core Nike Brand, Jordan Brand, and Converse, while maintaining a robust direct-to-consumer (DTC) digital ecosystem and a revitalized global wholesale partner network.
Key Innovations
- ✓Waffle Sole: The original traction innovation inspired by a kitchen waffle iron.
- ✓Nike Air: Pressurized gas inside a flexible bag providing lightweight cushioning without compromising structure.
- ✓Dri-FIT: High-performance, microfiber, polyester fabric that moves sweat away from the body.
- ✓Flyknit: A digital stitching process that creates a lightweight, form-fitting, and virtually seamless upper.
- ✓Aero-FIT (2026): Pinnacle cooling technology offering double the airflow of legacy apparel, debuting at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- ✓Project Amplify: The world's first powered-footwear system designed to augment natural movement for everyday athletes.
- ✓Nike Mind: Neuroscience-based footwear (Mind 001/002) designed to help athletes center their focus pre- and post-competition.
- ✓ReactX Foam: A sustainable, high-energy return foam that significantly reduces the carbon footprint compared to standard React foam.
Business Segments
- North AmericaThe company's largest market, focused on high-performance running, basketball (Jordan Brand), and lifestyle products. Includes the Nike World Headquarters and significant digital and retail operations across the US and Canada.
- Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA)A diverse geographic segment with a strong emphasis on global football (soccer), running, and heritage sportswear. Headquarters for this region are located in Hilversum, Netherlands.
- Greater ChinaA critical growth engine and manufacturing hub. This segment tailors products to local consumer trends in basketball and 'sport-style,' managed from regional headquarters in Shanghai.
SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust
SPY
SPY is the first exchange-traded fund (ETF) listed in the US. It is designed to track the S&P 500 Index, which measures the performance of the large-cap segment of the US equity market.
Key Innovations
- ✓First US-listed ETF
Business Segments
- ETFPassive investment vehicle tracking the S&P 500.
How This Comparison Works
Our stock comparison tool uses adjusted closing prices to calculate year-by-year returns for both stocks. This ensures an apples-to-apples comparison that accounts for:
- ✓Dividends: All dividend payments are reinvested
- ✓Stock splits: Historical prices are adjusted for all splits
- ✓Head-to-head record: Shows which stock outperformed each year
- ✓Statistical analysis: Average returns, best/worst years, and win rates
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Important Disclaimer
This comparison tool is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Historical returns include dividends and stock splits but do not account for taxes, fees, inflation, or individual circumstances. Stock market investments carry risk, including the potential loss of principal. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The data presented is based on historical market data and may contain inaccuracies or delays.