ETF Edge: Options strategies and commodities as a barrier against volatility

Market Overview & Risk Management - Equity valuations are high, and markets are on a knife's edge, prompting consideration of hedges like commodities [1] - Diversification into bonds or commodities and option-based strategies are recommended to bolster portfolios against equity market sell-offs [6] - The market offers opportunities to manage risk, and leaning into hedges is advisable given subdued volatility [43] - It's a good time to reduce US-centric equity risk due to valuations and uncertainties [45] Options Strategies - Option markets are efficient, and determining attractiveness requires more than just observing volatility levels [9][10] - Avoiding leverage and ensuring full collateralization are crucial when using options selling strategies [11] - Diversifying the option overlay through laddering (trading a small slice each day) helps adapt to changing market conditions [12][13] - Demand for income and defense against equity drawdowns should drive growth in option strategies [25] Gold & Precious Metals - Gold is traditionally a safe haven during economic turmoil and geopolitical instability, benefiting from falling interest rates [16][17] - There's significant room for gold to run, supported by geopolitical risks and central bank buying (approximately 1,000 tons per year over the last three years) [20][21] - Investors are typically underallocated to gold, with recommendations suggesting a 5% to 15% allocation [33] - Silver's industrial component (60% of overall demand) offers growth potential through industrialization, energy transition, and AI [49][50]