EWC VS HXS: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFs
4 min read
By Ron Koren, ETF Insider

EWC VS HXS: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFs

Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) have gained significant popularity as versatile investment vehicles, enabling investors to access various market sectors and asset classes. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the distinctions between two notable ETFs: EWC (iShares MSCI Canada ETF) and HXS (Horizons S&P 500 Index ETF). We'll explore key aspects such as ETF tickers, full names, issuers, sectors, top holdings, capitalization, investment strategy, tracking methods, and exposure characteristics.

EWC VS HXS: Overview

EWC and HXS represent distinct investment opportunities within the realm of ETFs. EWC is designed to track the performance of the Canadian equity market, providing exposure to a diverse range of companies across sectors. On the other hand, HXS offers exposure to the U.S. equity market through an innovative structure. These differences in focus and structure influence their risk and return profiles, which we'll investigate further.

EWC VS HXS: Sectors and Top Holdings

The iShares MSCI Canada ETF (EWC) offers exposure to sectors such as financials, energy, materials, and more within the Canadian market. Some of its top holdings include companies like Shopify, Royal Bank of Canada, and Enbridge. In contrast, the Horizons S&P 500 Index ETF (HXS) provides exposure to the entire S&P 500 index, encompassing leading U.S. companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon. Analyzing the sectors and top holdings aids investors in understanding the underlying assets driving each ETF's performance.

EWC overlap EWC VS HXS: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFsEWC overlap EWC VS HXS: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFs

EWC VS HXS: Capitalization and Investment Strategy

EWC boasts a considerable asset under management (AUM), indicative of its popularity among investors seeking Canadian market exposure. Its investment strategy involves replicating the performance of the MSCI Canada Index. HXS, however, employs a unique structure to achieve its goal. It uses total return swaps to replicate the returns of the S&P 500 index, mitigating the need to hold the underlying stocks. Differences in capitalization and strategy can influence risk and potential returns for investors.

EWC VS HXS: Tracking Methods and Exposure

EWC's tracking methodology involves holding a portfolio of Canadian stocks in proportions that mirror the MSCI Canada Index. This direct replication approach allows investors to closely match the index's performance. In contrast, HXS utilizes total return swaps to deliver returns corresponding to the S&P 500 index. This method enables investors to access U.S. equity exposure while minimizing tax implications for Canadian investors. Understanding these tracking methods helps investors choose the ETF that aligns with their goals.

Conclusion

EWC and HXS exemplify the diverse opportunities ETFs offer in accessing various markets and asset classes. For investors seeking insights into holdings, correlations, overlaps, and other critical information, ETF Insider provides a valuable tool. Through its user-friendly app, investors can gain in-depth insights into these ETFs and other financial instruments.

Disclaimer: This article does not offer any investment advisory services.

Sources:

iShares MSCI Canada ETF (EWC) official documentation
Horizons S&P 500 Index ETF (HXS) official documentation

EWC ETF issuer
EWC ETF official page

EWC quote and analysis

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