What is the IGOV ETF?
5 min read
By Beqa Bumbeishvili, ETF Insider

What is the IGOV ETF?

In the world of finance, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have gained immense popularity as they offer investors a convenient and diversified way to access various markets and asset classes. One such ETF that has garnered attention is the IGOV ETF, which focuses on government bonds from developed markets. In this article, we'll delve into the key aspects of the IGOV ETF, its underlying index, investment strategy, and what makes it stand out in the realm of financial instruments.

IGOV ETF: Overview

The IGOV ETF, short for iShares International Treasury Bond ETF, is designed to track the performance of the FTSE World Government Bond Index – Developed Markets Capped Select Index. This index measures the performance of fixed-rate, local currency, investment-grade sovereign bonds from certain developed markets. It's important to note that the IGOV ETF excludes the U.S. market from its selection.
To be eligible for inclusion in the Underlying Index, a country must meet specific criteria set by the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. This includes being classified as a developed country and meeting market accessibility standards. Additionally, the issuing country must have a minimum market size greater than specific thresholds in USD, EUR, and JPY. These criteria ensure that the ETF focuses on bonds from economically stable and established nations.

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IGOV ETF: Diving into the Investment Strategy

The IGOV ETF utilizes a passive or indexing approach, which means that it aims to replicate the performance of its underlying index rather than actively trying to beat it. This strategy eliminates the need for constant market analysis and stock picking. While it might not lead to exceptional outperformance, it does help in reducing some of the risks associated with active management.
One of the techniques employed by the IGOV ETF is representative sampling. This involves investing in a sample of securities that collectively mirrors the characteristics of the underlying index. By doing so, the ETF captures the overall investment profile of the index without necessarily holding all the securities within it. This approach ensures that the ETF maintains an investment profile similar to that of the index while keeping costs relatively low.

IGOV ETF: Portfolio Composition and Investment Focus

The IGOV ETF is committed to investing at least 80% of its assets in the component securities of the Underlying Index. Moreover, it allocates a minimum of 90% of its assets to fixed income securities that fall within the scope of the Underlying Index. The fund may also invest up to 10% of its assets in futures, options, swaps contracts, and fixed income securities that may not be part of the Underlying Index but aid in tracking its performance.
It's worth mentioning that the IGOV ETF seeks to replicate the investment results of the Underlying Index before considering fees and expenses. The index itself is sponsored by FTSE, an independent entity, which determines the composition and weightings of the securities in the index.

IGOV ETF: Conclusion

In conclusion, the IGOV ETF provides investors with exposure to a diversified basket of fixed-rate, local currency, investment-grade sovereign bonds from developed markets. Its passive indexing approach, coupled with representative sampling, makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a balanced and low-cost investment option. By closely tracking its underlying index, the IGOV ETF aims to provide a reliable performance that reflects the broader government bond market.

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

As the financial landscape continues to evolve, the IGOV ETF serves as a valuable tool for investors looking to include government bonds from developed markets in their portfolio. By understanding its investment strategy, portfolio composition, and objectives, investors can make informed decisions that align with their financial goals and risk tolerance.

IGOV ETF issuer
IGOV ETF official page

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FAQ

  • What is the IGOV ETF?

    IGOV ETF, is an exchange-traded fund that provides investors with exposure to companies operating in the relevant sector.

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

    IGOV ETF aims to track the performance of a specific index, which includes companies involved in various aspects of the relevant industry.

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

    IGOV ETF includes companies from the relevant industry, which may consist of specialized firms, equipment manufacturers, and other related entities.

  • How does the IGOV ETF work?

    IGOV ETF functions by pooling investors' capital to purchase a diversified portfolio of related stocks, aiming to replicate the performance of the underlying index.

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

    Investing in the IGOV ETF offers exposure to a specialized sector with potential for growth and innovation. It allows investors to diversify within the industry, which could experience significant advancements and expansion in the future.