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

What is the SOXS ETF ?

SOXS ETF: Overview

The SOXS ETF, or the Semiconductor Bear 3x Shares, is a financial instrument designed to provide inverse (opposite) or short daily exposure to the performance of the semiconductor industry in the United States. The ETF aims to deliver three times the inverse daily return of the benchmark index it tracks. The benchmark index is a rules-based, modified float-adjusted market capitalization-weighted index that consists of the thirty largest U.S. listed semiconductor companies. These companies are involved in the manufacturing of semiconductors for electronic applications, as well as those utilizing LED and OLED technology. The SOXS ETF is known for its leveraged and inverse characteristics, making it an attractive option for investors looking to capitalize on potential declines in the semiconductor sector.

SOXS ETF: Underlying and Exposure – What Does It Track and How?

The SOXS ETF's underlying benchmark index includes some of the most prominent companies in the semiconductor industry. The index is modified float-adjusted, meaning it takes into account the company's market capitalization while adjusting for the number of shares available for trading. This ensures that larger companies have a more substantial impact on the index's performance.
As a "bear" or inverse ETF, the SOXS aims to achieve the opposite daily return of its underlying index. For example, if the index experiences a 1% decline on a particular day, the SOXS ETF attempts to generate a 3% positive return. It accomplishes this through various financial instruments, including swap agreements, futures contracts, and short positions. The use of derivatives allows the ETF to amplify its exposure to the semiconductor industry, increasing the potential for higher returns in a declining market.

SOXS overlap What is the  SOXS ETF ?SOXS overlap What is the SOXS ETF ?

SOXS ETF: Benefits of Investing in this ETF

Investing in the SOXS ETF can be advantageous for investors who have a bearish outlook on the semiconductor industry. As a leveraged and inverse ETF, the SOXS provides the opportunity to profit from declines in the semiconductor sector. It allows investors to take a short position on the industry without engaging in complex short selling strategies.
Moreover, the ETF offers diversification benefits, as it represents a basket of thirty semiconductor companies. This reduces the risk associated with investing in individual semiconductor stocks. Additionally, the leverage factor (3x) can amplify potential returns for investors who accurately predict downturns in the sector.

SOXS ETF: Considerations Before Investing

While the SOXS ETF can be an appealing instrument for capitalizing on semiconductor market declines, potential investors should be aware of certain considerations before making a decision.
Firstly, leveraged and inverse ETFs are designed for short-term trading, typically for a single day. Holding these ETFs for an extended period can lead to tracking errors, and the actual returns may significantly deviate from the expected multiple of the benchmark index's performance. Investors should understand that the ETF's performance over time may not align with the 3x leverage objective.
Secondly, due to the daily rebalancing strategy employed by the ETF, transaction costs and fees can accumulate quickly, impacting overall returns. Investors should closely monitor expenses and be mindful of their potential impact on long-term performance.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the SOXS ETF can be a valuable tool for investors seeking to capitalize on potential declines in the semiconductor industry. However, it is essential to understand the complexities and risks associated with leveraged and inverse ETFs before considering an investment in this financial instrument.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about the SOXS ETF and does not constitute investment advice. It is essential to conduct thorough research and seek guidance from a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. The author does not provide investment advisory services.

SOXS ETF issuer
SOXS ETF official page

SOXS 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 SOXS Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bear 3x Shares, access our dedicated page now.

Get started

FAQ

  • What is the SOXS ETF?

    The SOXS ETF, also known as the Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bear 3X Shares, is an exchange-traded fund that seeks to provide daily investment results, before fees and expenses, that correspond to three times the inverse (-3x) of the daily performance of the PHLX Semiconductor Sector Index.

  • What is the PHLX Semiconductor Sector Index?

    The PHLX Semiconductor Sector Index is an index that represents the performance of companies primarily involved in the design, distribution, manufacture, and sale of semiconductors. It includes semiconductor manufacturers and equipment companies.

  • How does the SOXS ETF work?

    The SOXS ETF aims to achieve a daily return that is three times the opposite (inverse) of the daily return of the PHLX Semiconductor Sector Index. This means that it is designed to move in the opposite direction to the index, and its performance will magnify the daily gains or losses of the index by a factor of three.

  • What type of investors is the SOXS ETF suitable for?

    The SOXS ETF is designed for experienced and sophisticated investors who are seeking short-term, leveraged exposure to the semiconductor industry and have a bearish outlook on the sector's performance.

  • What are the risks associated with investing in the SOXS ETF?

    Investing in the SOXS ETF involves significant risks due to its leveraged nature. The fund's value can be highly volatile and can experience large losses in a short period, especially during periods of increased market volatility. It is essential for investors to closely monitor their positions and understand the potential for substantial losses.