How does the REM ETF work?
5 min read
By Ron Koren, ETF Insider

How does the REM ETF work?

In the world of finance, Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) have emerged as a compelling investment avenue for individuals and institutions alike. The REM ETF is one such instrument that has been catching the eye of investors. This article aims to shed light on what the REM ETF is, its underlying assets, the benefits of investing in it, and some considerations before diving in.

REM ETF: Overview

The REM ETF or the iShares Mortgage Real Estate ETF is a fund managed by BlackRock that primarily invests in REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) specializing in mortgage-backed securities. By investing in a variety of mortgage REITs, the REM ETF seeks to provide investors with exposure to the U.S. residential and commercial real estate markets. This kind of exposure can be an excellent way to diversify a portfolio, especially for those looking to benefit from the real estate sector without the direct responsibilities of property management.

REM ETF: Underlying and Exposure: What Does It Track and How?

The REM ETF tracks the FTSE NAREIT All Mortgage Capped Index, which consists of mortgage REITs from the residential and commercial real estate sectors. The ETF aims to replicate the performance of this index before fees and expenses. By doing so, it provides investors with a diversified exposure to the mortgage REIT sector.
Mortgage REITs within the REM ETF pool capital from investors to acquire mortgage-backed securities or extend mortgage loans. They earn income from the interest on these mortgages or mortgage-backed securities. Through the REM ETF, investors can gain exposure to the interest rate differential, which often reflects in the fund's performance.

REM overlap How does work the REM ETF?REM overlap How does work the REM ETF?

REM ETF: Benefits of Investing

Investing in the REM ETF comes with several advantages:
Diversification: The REM ETF offers diversification by investing in a variety of mortgage REITs, thus spreading the risk and potential for reward across the sector.
Income Generation: With its focus on mortgage REITs, the REM ETF has the potential to generate a steady income through dividends, making it an attractive option for income-seeking investors.
Liquidity: Being an ETF, the REM ETF trades on an exchange, which makes it a highly liquid investment compared to directly investing in real estate or individual REITs.
Professional Management: Managed by BlackRock, one of the world’s largest asset managers, the REM ETF is professionally managed, ensuring a level of expertise in selecting and managing its holdings.

REM ETF: Considerations Before Investing

Despite the benefits, there are some considerations investors should be mindful of:
Interest Rate Risk: Mortgage REITs, and thus the REM ETF, are sensitive to interest rate fluctuations. Rising interest rates could negatively impact the value of mortgage-backed securities and the income from them.
Market Risk: The performance of the real estate market, especially the mortgage market, significantly impacts the REM ETF's performance.
Management Fees: As with any managed fund, there are management fees associated with the REM ETF that could impact the overall returns.

Conclusion

The REM ETF offers a unique avenue for investors to diversify their portfolios and potentially generate income. With professional management by BlackRock and the liquidity of an ETF, it's a compelling option for those interested in the real estate sector. However, it's crucial to weigh the associated risks, especially the interest rate and market risks, before investing in the REM ETF.
With a clear understanding of the REM ETF’s underlying assets and its workings, investors can make an informed decision aligning with their financial goals and risk tolerance.

Sources:
iShares by BlackRock. REM ETF homepage.
Morningstar. REM ETF analysis.
Investopedia. Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) definition and explanation.

REM ETF issuer
REM ETF official page

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FAQ

  • What is the REM ETF?

    The REM ETF is an exchange-traded fund that provides investors with exposure to a specific sector.

  • What is the underlying index that the REM ETF aims to track?

    The REM ETF aims to track the performance of a specific index, which includes companies involved in its respective sector.

  • What types of companies are included in the REM ETF?

    The REM ETF includes companies from its focused industry.

  • How does the REM ETF work?

    The REM ETF functions by pooling investors' capital to purchase a diversified portfolio of sector-related stocks.

  • What are the advantages of investing in the REM ETF?

    Investing in the REM ETF offers exposure to a specialized sector with potential for growth.