Should Invesco S&P SmallCap Quality ETF (XSHQ) Be on Your Investing Radar?

Core Viewpoint - The Invesco S&P SmallCap Quality ETF (XSHQ) aims to provide broad exposure to the Small Cap Blend segment of the US equity market, with a focus on high-potential small cap companies, while managing associated risks [1][2]. Group 1: Fund Overview - XSHQ was launched on April 6, 2017, and has accumulated assets exceeding $306.62 million, categorizing it as an average-sized ETF in its segment [1]. - The ETF has an annual operating expense ratio of 0.29%, which is competitive within its peer group, and a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 1.25% [3]. Group 2: Sector Exposure and Holdings - The ETF's largest allocation is to the Industrials sector, comprising approximately 25.1% of the portfolio, followed by Financials and Consumer Discretionary [4]. - Sterling Infrastructure Inc (STRL) represents about 2.44% of total assets, with the top 10 holdings accounting for around 20.69% of total assets under management [5]. Group 3: Performance Metrics - XSHQ seeks to replicate the performance of the S&P SmallCap 600 Quality Index, which includes 120 high-quality securities based on return on equity, accruals ratio, and financial leverage ratio [6]. - As of August 8, 2025, the ETF has experienced a year-to-date loss of approximately 1.19% but has gained about 6.69% over the past year, trading between $34.34 and $47.59 in the last 52 weeks [7]. Group 4: Alternatives and Market Position - The ETF holds a Zacks ETF Rank of 3 (Hold), indicating it is a viable option for investors seeking exposure to the Small Cap Blend market segment [8]. - Comparable ETFs include the Vanguard Small-Cap ETF (VB) with $63.09 billion in assets and an expense ratio of 0.05%, and the iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF (IJR) with $80.19 billion in assets and an expense ratio of 0.06% [9]. Group 5: Investment Trends - Passively managed ETFs are gaining popularity among both institutional and retail investors due to their low costs, transparency, flexibility, and tax efficiency, making them suitable for long-term investment strategies [10].