Core Viewpoint - The First Trust NASDAQ Semiconductor ETF (FTXL) is a passively managed ETF that provides broad exposure to the Technology - Semiconductors segment, appealing to both retail and institutional investors due to its low costs and tax efficiency [1][2]. Group 1: Fund Overview - FTXL was launched on September 20, 2016, and has accumulated over $291.81 million in assets, positioning it as an average-sized ETF in the semiconductor sector [3]. - The ETF aims to match the performance of the Nasdaq US Smart Semiconductor Index, which focuses on US companies in the semiconductor industry [3]. Group 2: Costs and Performance - The annual operating expense ratio for FTXL is 0.60%, which is competitive within its peer group, and it has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 0.44% [4]. - Year-to-date, FTXL has increased by approximately 13.13%, but it has decreased by about -5.61% over the past year, with a trading range between $62.37 and $106.78 during the last 52 weeks [7]. Group 3: Sector Exposure and Holdings - FTXL has a 100% allocation in the Information Technology sector, with Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) making up about 9.19% of total assets, followed by Micron Technology, Inc. (MU) and Nvidia Corporation (NVDA) [5][6]. - The top 10 holdings constitute approximately 62.83% of the total assets under management [6]. Group 4: Alternatives and Rankings - FTXL holds a Zacks ETF Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating favorable expected returns and momentum [8]. - Other ETFs in the semiconductor space include the iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) and the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH), with assets of $13.63 billion and $27.58 billion respectively, both having an expense ratio of 0.35% [9].

The semiconductor sector is regaining momentum, with stocks like Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) rallying as part of a broader push to reclaim their strong performance from early 2024. Recent strength in the sector follows the conclusion of key trade negotiations between the United States and China. Investors are optimistic that the outcome may lead to eased restrictions on semiconductor exports, a development that could significantly benefit companies in the space.Several exchange-traded funds (ETFs) present a timel ...