Tech-Heavy NASDAQ up Slightly, an Encouraging Sign

Stocks fell for their fourth straight week, a streak not seen in the S&P 500 since the trade war escalation last August. In a break with the prior three weeks, however, the selling last week was concentrated in non-U.S. equities. The S&P 500 outperformed strongly, down 0.6% on the week, while international developed markets fell... READ MORE »

New ANT Could Be Alluring Mid-Cap Idea

The Natixis Vaughan Nelson Mid Cap ETF (VNMC), debuted earlier this month, making it one of the newest entrants to the fray of active non-transparent ETFs (ANTs), but with its mid-cap exposure, it could also be one of the more compelling ideas in the still young ANT space. The Natixis Vaughan Nelson Mid Cap ETF [...] READ MORE »

Gaming PC Market Setting up Nicely for this ETF

Investing in gaming and esports is undoubtedly teeming with potential, but investors should consider diverse approaches to these high growth arenas. The VanEck Vectors Video Gaming and eSports ETF (NASDAQ: ESPO) belongs on that list. ESPO seeks to track the performance of the MVIS Global Video Gaming and eSports Index (MVESPO). The... READ MORE »

Get Active in the Short-Term with this Municipal Bond ETF

Municipal bond exposure gives access to government debt that investors were not able to prior to the advent of more dynamic investment vehicles like the exchange-traded fund (ETF). Now, there are even more strategized funds that can take advantage of the short end of the yield curve in municipal bonds with the iShares Short Maturity... READ MORE »

Muni ETFs Aren’t Dependent on Electoral Outcomes

Among fixed income assets, municipal bonds are often sensitive to political conjecture due to the tax treatment of these bonds, bu the  VanEck Vectors High-Yield Municipal ETF (CBOE: HYD) could be a solid bet for income investors regardless of what happens on Election Day. Yields on munis have been steadily falling with bond prices... READ MORE »

Defensive Dividends Still Matter for Retirement Portfolios

At a time when equity and government bond yields are low and playing defense is a priority for many investors, the ALPS Sector Dividend Dogs ETF (SDOG) could be a relevant addition for conservative investors seeking added income, including retirees. Nonetheless, with the prospect of interest rate cuts and slowing global growth, it... READ MORE »