Is SPDR MSCI EAFE StrategicFactors ETF (QEFA) a Strong ETF Right Now?

Core Insights - The SPDR MSCI EAFE StrategicFactors ETF (QEFA) is a smart beta ETF launched on June 4, 2014, designed to provide broad exposure to the Broad Developed World ETFs category [1] - The fund is managed by State Street Global Advisors and has accumulated over $918.29 million in assets, making it an average-sized ETF in its category [5] - The ETF aims to match the performance of the MSCI EAFE Factor Mix A-Series Index, which includes large and mid-cap stocks from 22 developed markets focusing on value, low volatility, and quality factors [6] Fund Characteristics - The expense ratio for QEFA is 0.30%, positioning it as one of the cheaper options in the ETF space, with a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 2.99% [7] - The ETF has a beta of 0.74 and a standard deviation of 14.62% over the trailing three-year period, indicating a medium risk profile [10] Performance Metrics - As of July 30, 2025, QEFA has returned approximately 18.94% and increased by about 14.77% year-to-date [9] - The ETF has traded between $71.47 and $86.96 over the past 52 weeks [9] Holdings and Sector Exposure - The top holdings include Novartis Ag Reg (1.96% of total assets), ASML Holding Nv, and Nestle Sa Reg, with the top 10 holdings accounting for approximately 14.92% of total assets [8] Alternatives - Other ETFs in the same space include iShares MSCI EAFE ETF (EFA) with $64.24 billion in assets and iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF (IEFA) with $143.92 billion, offering different expense ratios and risk profiles [12]