What are the best Healthcare ETFs to invest in?
6 min read
By Ron Koren, ETF Insider

What are the best Healthcare ETFs to invest in?

In this article, we will explore the top Healthcare Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) that present promising investment opportunities in the dynamic healthcare industry. Delving into the diverse range of healthcare ETFs, we aim to provide investors with valuable insights and potential options to consider when seeking exposure to this vital and ever-evolving sector. ## Best Healthcare ETFs to Invest In: Top Performer
When it comes to investing in the healthcare sector, one of the top-performing ETFs is the iShares U.S. Healthcare ETF (IYH). This ETF aims to track the performance of the Dow Jones U.S. Health Care Index, providing exposure to leading healthcare companies in the United States. IYH offers investors a diverse portfolio of pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare providers, and other healthcare-related companies. With its strong historical performance and relatively low expense ratio, IYH stands out as an attractive option for investors seeking exposure to the healthcare sector.
Comparing IYH to other similar real ETFs, the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV) is another popular choice. XLV tracks the Health Care Select Sector Index and offers exposure to large-cap healthcare companies. While both IYH and XLV provide access to the healthcare sector, their holdings may differ slightly, leading to variations in performance. Investors should carefully consider their investment objectives and do thorough research to determine which ETF aligns better with their financial goals.

Best Healthcare ETFs to Invest In: Sector Diversification

Investors seeking broader exposure to the healthcare sector might find the Vanguard Health Care ETF (VHT) appealing. VHT aims to track the performance of the MSCI US Investable Market Health Care 25/50 Index, providing access to a wide range of healthcare companies, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare equipment, and services. This ETF offers investors the advantage of sector diversification, which can help reduce the impact of individual stock price fluctuations on the overall portfolio.
Another ETF to consider for sector diversification is the SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI). XBI focuses specifically on biotechnology companies, offering a targeted approach within the broader healthcare sector. As biotech companies often experience distinct growth patterns compared to pharmaceutical and healthcare providers, XBI can be a complementary addition to a diversified healthcare ETF like VHT.

XLV overlap What are the best Healthcare ETFs to invest in?XLV overlap What are the best Healthcare ETFs to invest in?

Best Healthcare ETFs to Invest In: Growth vs. Value

For investors with a preference for growth-oriented healthcare companies, the ARK Genomic Revolution ETF (ARKG) stands out. ARKG aims to provide exposure to companies involved in genomics, gene editing, genomic sequencing, and other related areas. This ETF has gained significant attention for its focus on innovative healthcare technologies, making it a popular choice for those seeking exposure to high-growth potential companies.
On the other hand, investors looking for value-oriented healthcare companies might consider the iShares Value Factor ETF (VLUE). While not exclusively focused on healthcare, VLUE selects stocks based on their value characteristics, such as low price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios. This ETF can be suitable for investors seeking more stable and established companies within the healthcare sector.

Best Healthcare ETFs to Invest In: Global Healthcare Exposure

If investors are interested in accessing healthcare companies outside the United States, the iShares Global Healthcare ETF (IXJ) is worth considering. IXJ provides exposure to a wide range of global healthcare companies, including both developed and emerging markets. This ETF offers diversification across different regions, providing investors with a broader perspective on the healthcare sector's performance.
Comparatively, the SPDR S&P Health Care Equipment ETF (XHE) provides a narrower focus on medical equipment companies. While XHE primarily targets U.S. companies, its concentrated exposure to the health care equipment sub-industry may appeal to investors seeking specific thematic exposure.

CONCLUSION:
When it comes to investing in healthcare ETFs, there are several options available to suit different investment objectives. Investors looking for top-performing ETFs may consider IYH, while those seeking sector diversification might prefer VHT. For growth-oriented investors, ARKG could be an attractive choice, and for global healthcare exposure, IXJ offers a diverse range of international companies. It is crucial for investors to conduct thorough research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide investment advisory services.

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FAQ

  • What are some popular Healthcare ETFs available in the US?

    Some popular Healthcare ETFs available in the US include the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV), iShares U.S. Healthcare ETF (IYH), Vanguard Health Care ETF (VHT), and iShares Global Healthcare ETF (IXJ).

  • What is the investment objective of Healthcare ETFs?

    Healthcare ETFs aim to provide investors with exposure to the healthcare sector by investing in a diversified portfolio of healthcare-related companies, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, healthcare providers, and more.

  • What factors should I consider when choosing a Healthcare ETF?

    When choosing a Healthcare ETF, you may consider factors such as expense ratio, liquidity, underlying index methodology, diversification, performance history, and the specific focus of the ETF (e.g., broad healthcare sector or specific subsectors).

  • Can you recommend some specialized Healthcare ETFs?

    Some specialized Healthcare ETFs focus on specific subsectors within healthcare, such as the SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) for biotechnology stocks or the iShares U.S. Medical Devices ETF (IHI) for medical device companies.

  • Are there any Healthcare ETFs that provide exposure to international markets?

    Yes, there are Healthcare ETFs that provide exposure to international markets. For example, the iShares Global Healthcare ETF (IXJ) invests in healthcare companies from around the world, including the United States.