What is the  HYDB ETF ?
4 min read
By Ron Koren, ETF Insider

What is the HYDB ETF ?

In the ever-evolving world of finance, investors have a myriad of options to choose from when it comes to allocating their funds. One popular choice for investors looking for exposure to the high-yield corporate bond market is the HYDB ETF. This article will delve into the key aspects of the HYDB ETF, providing an overview, understanding its underlying exposure, exploring its benefits, and discussing considerations before investing.

HYDB ETF: Overview

The HYDB ETF, short for High Yield Defensive Bond ETF, is an exchange-traded fund that aims to track the investment results of the BlackRock High Yield Defensive Bond Index, also known as the "Underlying Index." This index primarily consists of U.S. dollar-denominated, high-yield corporate bonds. It includes publicly-issued debt of U.S. corporate issuers, as well as non-U.S. corporate issuers, and bonds offered under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, with or without registration rights.

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

The Underlying Index's composition and relative weightings are determined by the Index Provider, which is an affiliated entity of the HYDB ETF, as well as BlackRock's investment advisor. The methodology used to select constituent bonds in the Underlying Index aims to screen out bonds with a higher probability of default and optimize risk-adjusted returns. Bonds with attractive default-adjusted spreads are given higher weights while mitigating portfolio risks and minimizing turnover. This approach results in a grouping of bonds considered "defensive" due to their characteristics that reduce the risk of default.

HYDB overlap What is the  HYDB ETF ?HYDB overlap What is the HYDB ETF ?

HYDB ETF: Benefits to Invest

Investing in the HYDB ETF offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides exposure to a diversified portfolio of high-yield corporate bonds, which can offer potentially higher yields compared to investment-grade bonds. Additionally, the ETF's defensive approach may appeal to risk-conscious investors who seek some level of protection against defaults. Furthermore, being an exchange-traded fund, it offers the advantage of liquidity and ease of trading on the stock exchange, allowing investors to buy and sell shares throughout the trading day.

HYDB ETF: Considerations Before Investing

While the HYDB ETF has its merits, investors should consider certain factors before investing. The ETF's focus on high-yield bonds means that it carries higher credit risk compared to investment-grade bonds, making it more susceptible to default risk. Moreover, it's essential to assess the ETF's expense ratio and other associated costs to understand the impact on overall returns. As with any investment, it is crucial to align the investment with one's financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment time horizon.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the HYDB ETF presents an opportunity for investors seeking exposure to high-yield corporate bonds within a defensive framework. Its underlying index selection methodology aims to optimize risk-adjusted returns while minimizing default risk. However, potential investors must exercise due diligence and carefully consider their financial objectives and risk tolerance before investing in the HYDB ETF.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide any investment advisory services. Investors should conduct thorough research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

HYDB ETF issuer
HYDB ETF official page

HYDB quote and analysis

Discover the top holdings, correlations, and overlaps of ETFs using our visualization tool.
Our app allows you to build and track your portfolio.
To learn more about the HYDB iShares High Yield Bond Factor ETF, access our dedicated page now.

Get started

FAQ

  • What is the HYDB ETF?

    The HYDB ETF, also known as the iShares U.S. Infrastructure ETF, is an exchange-traded fund that aims to provide investors with exposure to U.S. companies involved in U.S.-focused infrastructure activities.

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

    The HYDB ETF seeks to track the performance of the NYSE FactSet U.S. Infrastructure Index. This index is designed to measure the performance of equity securities of U.S. companies engaged in various infrastructure-related industries.

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

    The HYDB ETF includes companies classified under two categories in the underlying index. Category 1 comprises infrastructure enablers, such as companies in construction, engineering services, machineries, and materials. Category 2 consists of infrastructure asset owners and operators, including companies in energy transportation and storage, railroad transportation, and utilities.

  • How does the HYDB ETF work?

    The HYDB ETF follows an indexing approach, seeking to replicate the performance of its underlying index. It invests in a representative sample of securities that collectively have an investment profile similar to that of the NYSE FactSet U.S. Infrastructure Index. The Fund generally invests at least 80% of its assets in component securities of the Underlying Index.

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

    Investing in the HYDB ETF provides exposure to companies involved in U.S. infrastructure activities, which may benefit from potential infrastructure investments and developments. The ETF's indexing strategy aims to keep costs low and may reduce some risks associated with active management.