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This fund delivers income and protects from volatility. It's also rated 5 stars by Morningstar

The Franklin International Low Volatility High Dividend Index ETF looks to provide calm amid volatility. Here's how it works and where it's investing.

This fund delivers income and protects from volatility. It's also rated 5 stars by Morningstar

TL;DR

  • Low volatility funds, like the Franklin International Low Volatility High Dividend Index ETF (LVHI), are gaining traction among investors seeking stability in turbulent markets.
  • LVHI offers a 3.35% 30-day SEC yield and a 0.40% expense ratio, and has outperformed the S&P 500 year-to-date.
  • The fund achieves low volatility through international diversification and by screening for stocks with high dividends and low price/earnings volatility.
  • Overweight positions in energy, consumer staples, and utilities are characteristic of the fund's current holdings, which perform well in turbulent times.
  • A domestic counterpart, the Franklin U.S. Low Volatility High Dividend Index ETF (LVHD), also offers outperformance and serves as a conservative core holding.