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

What is the IGSB ETF?

IGSB ETF: Overview

The IGSB ETF is designed to track the performance of the ICE® BofA® 1-5 Year US Corporate Index, a benchmark that measures the investment-grade corporate bonds' performance issued by both U.S. and non-U.S. entities. These bonds are denominated in U.S. dollars and have a remaining maturity of greater than or equal to one year and less than five years. As of February 28, 2023, the index included a total of 3,667 bond issues, making it a comprehensive representation of the short-term corporate bond market.

IGSB ETF: Understanding the Underlying Index

The Underlying Index, which the IGSB ETF seeks to track, is composed of investment-grade corporate bonds that fulfill specific criteria. These bonds must have a remaining maturity of one to five years and have been publicly issued in the U.S. domestic market. Additionally, they need to have a minimum outstanding face value of $250 million. The index includes bonds from both U.S. and non-U.S. issuers, further diversifying the exposure.
The term "investment grade" is determined based on the average ratings from respected credit rating agencies, such as Fitch Ratings, Moody’s Investors Service, and Standard & Poor's. Bonds with ratings of BBB or better (according to Fitch and S&P) and Baa or better (according to Moody's) are considered investment grade.

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IGSB ETF: Portfolio Strategy and Management

The IGSB ETF employs an indexing approach, which means it aims to replicate the performance of its underlying index rather than outperform it. This strategy is intended to offer investors consistent and predictable returns that closely mirror the market trends. Indexing also tends to result in lower fees and reduced portfolio turnover compared to actively managed funds.
BlackRock Fund Advisors (BFA), the entity behind the IGSB ETF, employs a representative sampling indexing strategy. This involves investing in a sample of securities that collectively exhibit similar characteristics to those of the underlying index. This strategy helps to manage costs while maintaining a portfolio that closely resembles the benchmark.

IGSB ETF: Investment and Industry Concentration

The IGSB ETF primarily invests in the component securities of the Underlying Index. It aims to invest at least 80% of its assets in these securities, along with a maximum of 10% of its assets in futures, options, swaps contracts, and other fixed-income securities. The goal is to track the Underlying Index's investment results before accounting for fees and expenses.
It's worth noting that the IGSB ETF, while providing diversification, does not eliminate the potential for industry concentration. The ETF may concentrate its investments in a particular industry to a similar extent as the Underlying Index. However, securities issued by the U.S. government, government agencies, and state or municipal governments are exempt from this concentration policy.

Conclusion

The IGSB ETF presents investors with an opportunity to gain exposure to investment-grade short-term corporate bonds within a diversified portfolio. Its tracking of the ICE® BofA® 1-5 Year US Corporate Index offers a comprehensive representation of the market, while its indexing strategy aims to provide stable, market-aligned returns. As with any investment, careful consideration of one's financial goals and risk tolerance is essential.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about the IGSB ETF and its characteristics. It does not provide investment advice or recommendations. Individuals should conduct thorough research and seek professional financial advice 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 is the IGSB ETF?

    IGSB 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 IGSB ETF aims to track?

    IGSB 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 IGSB ETF?

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

  • How does the IGSB ETF work?

    IGSB 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 IGSB ETF?

    Investing in the IGSB 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.