What’s the Difference Between Sampling Strategy and Full Replication ETFs?

Many investors prefer their exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to try to match the performance of an index. This can be accomplished by investing in index funds, which typically purchase a basket of stocks designed to mimic one of the major indexes, such as the S&P 500. Investors who choose to invest in the stock market through index funds can do so through one of two main strategies: full replication ETFs or sampling ETFs. Below, ETFdb.com discusses the key differences between sampling and replication.