Core Insights - International stocks have become a favorable investment option in 2025, with the Vanguard International High Dividend Yield ETF returning 29.6% year to date, outperforming the S&P 500's 15.6% return [2][7] - The weakening dollar has contributed to the improved performance of international investments, making overseas holdings more valuable in dollar terms [8] Fund Overview - The Vanguard International High Dividend Yield ETF comprises 1,531 stocks from 40 countries, focusing on above-average dividend yields, with a current yield of 3.95%, significantly higher than the S&P 500's yield [4][7] - The fund's asset allocation includes approximately 42% in financials, with industrials, energy, and consumer staples making up an additional 24% [5] Valuation Comparison - The valuation gap between U.S. stocks and international stocks is notable, with the S&P 500 trading at around 29 times earnings compared to the ETF's valuation near 13 times for similar profit profiles [6]

Core Insights - U.S. investors now have broader access to international investments, including emerging and frontier markets, which present both opportunities and risks [1] Group 1: Emerging vs. Frontier Markets - Emerging markets are characterized by significant growth and are transitioning towards developed status, featuring liquid equity and debt markets, stable currencies, and good access for foreign investors [2] - Frontier markets are less developed than emerging markets, facing higher market volatility, lower liquidity, and potential political instability, with fewer large, stable companies available for investment [3] - There are generally more investment opportunities in emerging markets compared to frontier markets, with categorizations varying by index providers like MSCI and S&P [4] Group 2: Evaluating Investment Opportunities - Investors should assess their risk tolerance when considering investments in emerging or frontier markets, as these markets present unique political, regulatory, legal, liquidity, and currency risks [5] - Frontier markets typically exhibit greater risks and potential rewards, including rapid growth and favorable demographics, but risks can vary significantly by country [6]

All right, so we're really focused on the shutdown here in the US, but in all fairness, we've seen outperformance from overseas markets uh in Asia, including Japan, Korea, and Taiwan over the last month. What's been going on with that. And I mean, is there potential for the shutdown to leave more US money and global money to go to those markets or other foreign markets.Well, I think there is. I mean, look, there's been a number of reasons this year why uh uh global investors have been looking outside of the ...

Group 1 - The Franklin International Low Volatility High Dividend Index ETF (LVHI) offers a unique approach to international investing by emphasizing dividends, currency hedging, and low volatility [1] Group 2 - The individual investor's analysis focuses on cash flow potential, relative value, and economic moat, combining quantitative analysis with storytelling to assess investment opportunities [2] - The investor utilizes Python and algorithms to identify overlooked or overhyped companies in the stock market, integrating both fundamental and technical analysis to enhance investment success [2] - The investor has a strong educational background in accounting and economics, holding master's degrees and pursuing a PhD, which supports their analytical capabilities in the investment field [2]