What is the  PSMD ETF ?
5 min read
By Ron Koren, ETF Insider

What is the PSMD ETF ?

In the world of finance, Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) have gained immense popularity as they offer investors an easy way to diversify their portfolios and gain exposure to various financial instruments. One such ETF is the PSMD ETF, an actively managed fund with a unique investment strategy. In this article, we will delve into the PSMD ETF, its underlying exposure, benefits of investing in this ETF, and important considerations before making an investment.

PSMD ETF: Overview

The PSMD ETF, short for "Pacer Swan SOS Mid Cap Downside Hedged ETF," is an actively managed exchange-traded fund. The fund's strategy is centered around using Flexible Exchange® Options (FLEX Options) that reference the market price of the SPDR® S&P 500® ETF Trust (the "Underlying ETF"). The PSMD ETF aims to achieve pre-determined target investment outcomes based on the performance of the Underlying ETF over an approximate one-year Investment Period. It's important to note that the PSMD ETF's strategy has unique characteristics that set it apart from traditional investment vehicles, making it crucial for investors to understand these distinctions before investing.

PSMD ETF: Underlying and Exposure

The PSMD ETF's underlying exposure is linked to the performance of the SPDR® S&P 500® ETF Trust. The fund utilizes FLEX Options, which are exchange-traded options contracts with customizable terms like exercise price, style, and expiration date. These FLEX Options give the PSMD ETF the right to receive or deliver shares of the Underlying ETF on the option expiration date at a pre-defined strike price. The investment strategy seeks to provide protection against the first 15% of Underlying ETF losses, while experiencing losses greater than 15% on a one-to-one basis with the Underlying ETF. This structured outcome strategy is designed to offer potential benefits to investors, but the results are not guaranteed, and investors should consider the possible outcomes before investing.

PSMD overlap What is the  PSMD ETF ?PSMD overlap What is the PSMD ETF ?

PSMD ETF: Benefits of Investing

One of the primary benefits of investing in the PSMD ETF is the potential for upside participation that matches the returns of the Underlying ETF, up to the predetermined Cap set at the start of the Investment Period. Investors can gain exposure to the performance of mid-cap stocks through the Underlying ETF, while also benefiting from the protection provided by the Buffer against the initial 15% of Underlying ETF losses. Additionally, the PSMD ETF's strategy aims to offer investment returns that match the percentage increase of the Underlying ETF, but with a predetermined Cap that represents the maximum return an investor can achieve for the entire Investment Period.

PSMD ETF: Considerations Before Investing

Before investing in the PSMD ETF, there are several essential considerations that investors should keep in mind. Firstly, the unique mechanics of the Fund's strategy and the use of FLEX Options may result in distinct characteristics and outcomes compared to traditional ETFs or investment vehicles. Investors should carefully review the Fund's prospectus and other relevant materials to understand the investment strategy and risk factors associated with the PSMD ETF. Additionally, the Cap and Buffer levels should be considered, as they are determined based on prevailing market conditions and can vary for each Investment Period.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the PSMD ETF offers investors an actively managed fund with a structured outcome strategy using FLEX Options linked to the performance of the SPDR® S&P 500® ETF Trust. It provides potential upside participation with a predetermined Cap and protection against the initial 15% of Underlying ETF losses. However, it is crucial for investors to understand the unique characteristics and potential outcomes of the PSMD ETF before making any investment decisions. As with any investment, thorough research, and careful consideration of risk factors should guide investors' choices.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide any investment advisory services. Investors should consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

PSMD ETF issuer
PSMD ETF official page

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FAQ

  • What is the PSMD ETF?

    The PSMD ETF, also known as the UST 2 Year Note Fund, is an exchange-traded fund that aims to achieve investment results corresponding to the price and yield performance of the ICE BofA Current 2-Year US Treasury Index (GA02).

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

    The PSMD ETF aims to track the performance of the ICE BofA Current 2-Year US Treasury Index, which consists of the most recently issued 2-year US Treasury note and is rebalanced monthly.

  • How does the PSMD ETF work?

    The PSMD ETF operates by investing at least 80% of its net assets in the component securities of the Underlying Index, which includes 2-year US Treasury notes issued by the U.S. government.

  • What types of securities are included in the Underlying Index?

    The Underlying Index is comprised of the most recently issued 2-year US Treasury notes, also known as "on-the-run" or "OTR" securities. These are Treasury securities that have been most recently auctioned by the U.S. government.

  • What is the investment strategy of the PSMD ETF?

    The PSMD ETF primarily invests in the component securities of the Underlying Index, but it may also allocate up to 20% of its total assets in securities or other investments not included in the index to help track its performance.