You might find FCTR's rotating strategy intriguing at first glance, but it raises some important questions about its effectiveness. While it aims to adapt to market shifts through its focus on momentum, value, volatility, and quality, the results speak for themselves. With underperformance against the S&P 500 and high turnover costs, one can't help but wonder if this approach is truly sustainable. What could this mean for investors looking for reliable growth?
Since its launch in July 2018, the First Trust Lunt U.S. Factor Rotation ETF (FCTR) has aimed to provide investors with a dynamic approach to factor investing. By employing a rotating allocation strategy among four key factors—momentum, value, volatility, and quality—FCTR seeks to maximize returns in varying market conditions. Each month, the ETF evaluates its factor allocation, leading to a high turnover rate as it adjusts to shifting market dynamics. This active management style allows you to tap into the strengths of different factors based on their performance at that time.
However, while the concept sounds promising, the execution has been less stellar. Since inception, FCTR's returns have lagged behind those of the S&P 500 and even an equal-weight portfolio of single-factor ETFs. This underperformance can be frustrating, especially if you were counting on the ETF to deliver solid returns. The strategy's high costs further compound the issue, as they can eat away at your overall investment gains. Following quality standards is crucial to ensure the relevance and credibility of information regarding investment performance.
The ETF's monthly evaluations mean that stocks are constantly being bought and sold, leading to high turnover. While this can be beneficial in some market conditions, it also means that you may find yourself frequently adjusting your portfolio, creating potential stress and confusion. If you give up on the strategy during a period of underperformance, you risk missing out on potential future gains. This can lead you to question whether sticking with factor rotation is worth it.
FCTR's strategy offers a multi-factor approach, which can help you avoid the pitfalls of prolonged underperformance associated with sticking to a single factor. By dynamically allocating between factors, you might be able to adapt more effectively to changing market conditions. However, this approach still requires careful evaluation of your investment objectives and risk tolerance. If you're feeling disillusioned by FCTR, it might be worth considering alternative multi-factor ETFs or strategies that align better with your goals.
Ultimately, while FCTR's rotating strategy presents an intriguing concept, its actual performance and high costs can lead you to feel like you're going in circles. You'll need to weigh the potential benefits against the challenges before deciding if this strategy fits your investment plan.
