This ETF is designed to deliver a unique way for investors to protect their portfolios from the adverse impacts associated with an uptick in inflation. As such, RINF can be used in a number of different ways; it may have appeal as a core holding in long-term portfolios, or as a more tactical allocation when expectations for inflation increase.
This ETF is designed to deliver a unique way for investors to protect their portfolios from the adverse impacts associated with an uptick in inflation. As such, RINF can be used in a number of different ways; it may have appeal as a core holding in long-term portfolios, or as a more tactical allocation when expectations for inflation increase.
This ETF should be viewed as an alternative to traditional TIPS, which are generally the default tool for protecting against inflation. Despite their popularity, there are some significant drawbacks with TIPS—specifically, they are bonds that can be impacted by changes in interest rates. Because rising interest rates often accompany jumps in inflation, the ability of this asset class to protect against rising prices may be limited.
RINF taks a unique approach; because it consists of long and short positions in assets with approximately equal durations, the interest rate component is removed. That essentially isolates inflation expectations as the source of returns; if the market’s expectations for inflation rise, TIPS will outperform otherwise comparable Treasuries and RINF will appreciate.
This is a relatively complex ETF, and may not be appropriate for all investors. But if you’re interested in making a bet on increasing expectations for inflation, RINF offers a unique way to isolate these risk factors.