Is SPDR S&P Global Dividend ETF (WDIV) a Strong ETF Right Now?

Core Viewpoint - The SPDR S&P Global Dividend ETF (WDIV) is a smart beta ETF designed to provide broad exposure to the Global Large-Cap Value Equity ETF category, focusing on high dividend-yield companies with a history of stable or increasing dividends [1][5][6]. Fund Overview - WDIV was launched on May 29, 2013, and is managed by State Street Investment Management [1][5]. - The fund has accumulated assets exceeding $224.9 million, positioning it as an average-sized ETF within its category [5]. - WDIV aims to match the performance of the S&P Global Dividend Aristocrats Index, which includes companies that have maintained or increased dividends for at least ten consecutive years [6]. Cost and Performance - The ETF has an annual operating expense ratio of 0.40%, making it one of the cheaper options in the market [7]. - Its 12-month trailing dividend yield is reported at 4.09% [7]. - Year-to-date, WDIV has returned approximately 20.33%, with a one-year return of about 15.8% as of September 8, 2025 [9]. Holdings and Risk - The fund holds about 122 different stocks, effectively diversifying company-specific risk [10]. - The top three holdings include Cspc Pharmaceutical Group Ltd (2.48% of total assets), Apa Group, and Altria Group Inc, with the top 10 holdings accounting for approximately 17.38% of total assets [8]. - WDIV has a beta of 0.64 and a standard deviation of 13.11% over the trailing three-year period, indicating a low-risk profile [10]. Alternatives - While WDIV is a viable option for investors looking to outperform the Global Large-Cap Value Equity ETF segment, there are alternative ETFs available, such as the SPDR Global Dow ETF (DGT) and the Pacer Global Cash Cows Dividend ETF (GCOW) [11][12]. - DGT has assets of $435.94 million and an expense ratio of 0.50%, while GCOW has $2.46 billion in assets with a 0.60% expense ratio [12].