Core Viewpoint - The Federal Reserve's recent interest rate cut and persistent inflation are creating challenges for income-focused investors, leading to increased interest in alternative investment strategies such as gold and specialized ETFs like the ProShares Nasdaq-100 High Income ETF [1][2][4]. Interest Rate and Inflation - The Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points in September, which is expected to impact income-focused investors negatively [1]. - Inflation remains a significant concern, contributing to the rise in gold prices, with predictions from experts suggesting that gold could reach prices as high as $20,000 [2][3]. Investment Strategies - Income-seeking investors may need to accept higher risks, such as investing in commercial bonds or dividend stocks from unstable enterprises, due to declining risk-free yields from U.S. Treasuries [4]. - Advanced traders might consider writing covered calls, which involves underwriting the risk that the target security will not rise significantly [5][6]. ProShares Nasdaq-100 High Income ETF - The ProShares Nasdaq-100 High Income ETF (IQQQ) targets high income potential while aiming for long-term total returns similar to the tech-heavy Nasdaq-100 index [7]. - The IQQQ ETF employs a daily covered-call strategy through total return swap agreements with institutional counterparties, which helps deliver returns [8]. - The fund balances high yields with attractive long-term total return potential, acknowledging the tradeoff between income generation and capital gains [9][10]. - Monthly distributions from the IQQQ ETF align with typical financial obligations, making it a convenient option for income-focused investors [11]. Performance Metrics - Since the beginning of the year, the IQQQ ETF has gained almost 4%, with a notable 29% increase over the trailing six months [13]. - The ETF's technical profile is strong, with price action above both the 50- and 200-day moving averages, indicating positive market sentiment [13].
ProShares IQQQ ETF Delivers High Yields Amid A Dovish Pivot In Monetary Policy
Benzinga·2025-10-20 12:49