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These Big Dividends Are Sending Out An Urgent Sell Signal Now
Forbesยท2025-09-01 12:00

Market Overview - The S&P 500 has shown significant gains this year despite recent selloff concerns, with current gains reflecting an entire year's worth of historical returns on average [3] - There are indications of high stock valuations, but the market is not in a bubble at this time [3] Closed-End Funds (CEFs) Analysis - Many closed-end funds are currently overbought, with yields exceeding 8%, necessitating caution among investors [4] - Three specific CEFs are highlighted as having inflated premiums to net asset value (NAV), suggesting they should be sold or avoided [4] Sell Signal No. 1: Gabelli Utility Trust (GUT) - GUT has a premium of 89.6%, down from 96.2%, indicating investors are still paying significantly above its asset value [5][6] - The fund's holdings in major US utility stocks could face declines if the premium diminishes, especially given the crowded trade in utilities related to AI's electricity demand [6][7] Sell Signal No. 2: PIMCO Strategic Income Fund (RCS) - RCS has seen its premium rise to over 55%, significantly above the 20% premium during the April selloff, indicating a potential "mini-bubble" [8][9] - Historical data suggests that RCS's premium could drop, leading to unrealized losses for investors [9] Sell Signal No. 3: Guggenheim Strategic Opportunities Fund (GOF) - GOF's premium stands at 29.1%, which, while lower than previous highs, still raises concerns about sustainability [10] - The fund's yield on NAV is 19%, indicating it may not be generating enough returns to cover its dividend, suggesting a potential payout cut [12][13]