July’s small-cap rally may have dissipated, but they can still offer investors value while also adding income with an options strategy. Investors can get this one-two punch combo in one ETF: the NEOS Russell 2000 High Income ETF (IWMI ).
The intrigue in small-caps was building as the capital markets were anticipating a migration from large-cap equities. With rate cuts forthcoming, lower debt service costs could help small-cap companies decrease their operating costs and eventually thrive in a succession of rate cuts. As such, the Russell 2000 gained 10% in the month of July, handily beating its peers.
Of course, that rotation to small-caps took a turn as the Aug. 5 sell-off sparked heavy volatility and a flight from riskier assets amid renewed recession fears. Investors sought the safety of assets like bonds, precious metals, and even went back into the arms of the large-cap names that have been leading much of the gains for 2024.
However, since the sell-off, the Russell 2000 has been in recovery mode. Year to date, the index is still up about 6%. And with the Fed expected to cut interest rates in September, the Aug. 5 sell-off could have been a perfunctory correction.
“If small-caps keep trailing here, which is what’s consistently been happening since late July, it’s a stronger risk-off signal and a sign that the current rebound in equities may be a fakeout,” said- Michael Gayed, CFA, portfolio manager at Toroso Investments
Actively Driven Income
Renewed confidence in small-caps could bring investors back, including those seeking fixed income opportunities. IWMI is worth a closer look with its active management. And with a 14% distribution yield as of July 31, it’s difficult to overlook the income potency of IWMI.
IWMI seeks to generate high monthly income in a tax-efficient manner with the potential for equity appreciation. The active component of the fund allows investors to tap into the portfolio management capabilities of experienced professionals who can navigate complicated markets. This includes investing in the Russell 2000 Index and implementing a data-driven call option strategy.
IWMI also takes advantage of tax-loss harvesting opportunities by using Russell 2000 index options that are classified as section 1256 contracts by the IRS. These are subjected to lower 60/40 tax rates.
The duality of the upside potential in small-caps and the income derived from the options strategy can appeal to all investors. In times of volatility, it also helps to have the active management to allow for flexibility when markets change.
For more news, information, and analysis, visit the Tax Efficient Income Channel.
