MCHI: A Gateway To Chinese Equities

Core Viewpoint - The iShares MSCI China ETF (MCHI) provides focused exposure to Chinese equities, with total assets under management exceeding $7.1 billion since its inception in March 2011, and offers a semi-annual dividend yield of approximately 2.5% [1][38]. Group 1: ETF Overview - MCHI tracks the MSCI China Index (MCI), which captures about 85% of China's equity universe and serves as a benchmark for institutional investors [2]. - The ETF includes around 550 Chinese stocks, but does not replicate MCI perfectly; it selects stocks that collectively represent the index's characteristics [3]. - MCHI has a relatively high tracking error compared to other ETFs, with tracking errors of 24.02%, 25.64%, and 24.72% over 1, 3, and 5 years respectively [4][5]. Group 2: Portfolio Characteristics - MCHI's portfolio is heavily weighted towards large-cap stocks, with giant-cap stocks making up over 70% of the total portfolio and an average market cap of approximately $87 billion [7][8]. - The ETF includes various share classes, with nearly half of the index comprising P-chip stocks, which are Chinese stocks incorporated outside China but listed in Hong Kong [9][11]. - MCHI's largest sector exposure is in consumer discretionary and communication services, which together account for over half of its portfolio [14][21]. Group 3: Investment Appeal - MCHI is designed for investors seeking exposure to the Chinese market, particularly those interested in a stable investment vehicle with a low annual turnover rate of 15% [25]. - The ETF offers a unique blend of growth and value characteristics, with almost half of its holdings classified as hybrid stocks [28]. - Valuations for MCHI are attractive, with a P/E ratio of 13.5x and a P/CF ratio of 9.46x, representing significant discounts compared to US and global stocks [32]. Group 4: Comparison with Alternatives - MCHI is compared with other ETFs like the Franklin FTSE China ETF (FLIN) and the iShares MSCI China Small-Cap ETF (ECNS), highlighting differences in AUM, expense ratios, and sector allocations [34][37]. - FLIN has a lower expense ratio and is less top-heavy than MCHI, while ECNS focuses on mid-caps and offers a higher yield of over 4.5% [35][37].