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

What is the XBB ETF?

XBB ETF: Overview

The XBB ETF, officially known as the iShares Broad USD High Yield Corporate Bond ETF, is a financial instrument designed to track the investment results of the ICE BofA BB US Cash Pay High Yield Constrained Index. This Index contains bonds from the ICE BofA US Cash Pay High Yield Index that are rated BB1 through BB3. The XBB ETF seeks to provide investors with exposure to high-yield, below-investment grade corporate bonds while mitigating risks through careful index tracking.

XBB ETF: Investment Strategy

The investment strategy behind the XBB ETF is primarily based on passive or indexing approaches. Unlike actively managed funds, the XBB ETF does not aim to outperform the index it tracks. Instead, it seeks to match the performance of its underlying index. This approach eliminates the potential for substantial outperformance, but it also reduces some of the risks associated with active management, such as poor security selection.
Representative sampling is the indexing strategy employed by the XBB ETF. This approach involves investing in a carefully selected sample of bonds that collectively mirror the investment profile of the underlying index. The chosen bonds are expected to exhibit similar characteristics in terms of market value, sector weightings, fundamental attributes (such as credit ratings and yield), and liquidity measures.

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XBB ETF: Portfolio Composition

The XBB ETF aims to invest at least 80% of its net assets in high-yield, below-investment grade bonds rated BB or its equivalent. These bonds are denominated in U.S. dollars and issued by corporate entities. Additionally, the fund may allocate up to 20% of its net assets in various financial instruments such as futures, options, swap contracts, U.S. Treasury obligations, U.S. Government obligations, and more. These allocations can help diversify the fund's holdings and enhance its tracking ability.
It's important to note that the XBB ETF's portfolio turnover is intentionally kept low to align with the principles of indexing. This helps achieve lower costs and better after-tax performance compared to actively managed funds with higher turnover.

XBB ETF: Investment Considerations

Investors considering the XBB ETF should be aware of its focus on high-yield, below-investment grade bonds. These bonds, often referred to as "junk bonds," carry higher credit risk due to their lower credit ratings. While they offer the potential for higher yields, they also come with increased volatility and default risk. As with any investment, understanding your risk tolerance and financial goals is crucial before investing in the XBB ETF or any similar financial instrument.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the XBB ETF provides investors with exposure to a diversified portfolio of high-yield corporate bonds while utilizing a passive investment approach. By tracking the ICE BofA BB US Cash Pay High Yield Constrained Index, the XBB ETF aims to replicate the performance of its underlying index. However, investors should conduct thorough research and consider their risk tolerance before including this ETF in their investment portfolios.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide investment advisory services. Investing in financial instruments involves risk, and individuals should consult with financial professionals before making investment decisions.

Sources: Data provided by the fund's official documents and prospectus, including information about the fund's investment objective, strategy, and composition.

XBB ETF issuer
XBB ETF official page

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FAQ

  • What is the XBB ETF?

    XBB 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 XBB ETF aims to track?

    XBB 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 XBB ETF?

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

  • How does the XBB ETF work?

    XBB 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 XBB ETF?

    Investing in the XBB 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.