Group 1 - Major stock indexes are nearing all-time highs, prompting some investors to consider protecting their gains against potential market downturns [1] - For investors lacking the time or expertise to manage their own hedging strategies, certain ETFs are available to assist [1] - Fred Piard, a quantitative analyst with over 30 years of experience, runs an investing group focused on quality dividend stocks and tech innovation [1] Group 2 - The investing group also provides market risk indicators, real estate strategies, bond strategies, and income strategies through closed-end funds [1] - Fred Piard has been investing in data-driven systematic strategies since 2010 and is the author of three books [1]