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

KSA VS GULF: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFs

Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) have transformed the investment landscape, providing investors with diversified exposure across different sectors and asset classes. In this comprehensive analysis, we will undertake a thorough comparison between two prominent ETFs: KSA (iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF) and GULF (WisdomTree Middle East Dividend Fund). Our examination will encompass various dimensions, including ticker symbols, full names, issuers, sectors, top holdings, capitalization, investment strategies, tracking methodologies, and exposure profiles.

KSA VS GULF: Overview

KSA and GULF are two ETFs that cater to distinct investment strategies within the Middle East region. While KSA focuses on tracking the performance of the Saudi Arabian equity market, GULF offers exposure to dividend-paying companies from the broader Middle East. This disparity in focus results in divergent risk and return profiles, which we will delve into further in the subsequent sections.

KSA VS GULF: Sectors and Top Holdings

The KSA ETF primarily concentrates on sectors within the Saudi Arabian market, with significant exposure to industries such as Financial Services, Materials, and Telecommunications. In contrast, GULF spans a broader range of sectors including Financials, Telecommunications, and Real Estate, with top holdings encompassing companies from countries like Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait. A thorough understanding of sectors and top holdings aids investors in aligning their investment choices with specific market segments.

KSA overlap KSA VS GULF: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFsKSA overlap KSA VS GULF: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFs

KSA VS GULF: Capitalization and Investment Strategy

KSA boasts a substantial Asset Under Management (AUM), indicative of its popularity among investors seeking access to the Saudi Arabian equity market. GULF's investment strategy revolves around dividend-paying companies across the Middle East. The difference in capitalization and investment approach between these two ETFs leads to varying risk and return potential, necessitating careful consideration from investors.

KSA VS GULF: Tracking and Exposure

KSA aims to mirror the performance of the MSCI Saudi Arabia IMI 25/50 Index, providing exposure to Saudi Arabian equities. In contrast, GULF seeks to track the price and yield performance of the WisdomTree Middle East Dividend Index, which includes dividend-paying companies from countries in the Middle East and North Africa. Understanding the tracking methodologies and exposure nuances assists investors in choosing the ETF that aligns with their investment objectives.

Conclusion

KSA and GULF stand as distinct ETF options, offering investors specialized avenues to engage with the Middle East's financial markets. For individuals seeking deeper insights into holdings, correlations, overlaps, and other essential information, ETF Insider emerges as the ultimate tool for exploration. With its user-friendly app, ETF Insider presents comprehensive details on these ETFs and various other financial instruments.

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

Sources:

iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF (KSA) Fact Sheet
WisdomTree Middle East Dividend Fund (GULF) Overview

KSA ETF issuer
KSA ETF official page

Get started