The SPDR Portfolio High Yield Bond ETF (SPHY) is an expansive and diverse high yield ETF that aims to track the performance of the ICE BofA US High Yield Index. However, the fund’s performance since its establishment has been relatively modest and has been hampered by taxes and inflation. The risks associated with the fund are not adequately compensated, which calls into question its suitability for investors. Despite a low management fee of 0.05% and exposure to over a trillion dollars of USD-denominated high yield debt, the fund’s performance across different time periods has been lackluster. With a mixed quality portfolio that includes both investment grade and below investment grade bonds, the fund is exposed to risks such as default, market liquidity, economic sensitivity, spread, and market timing challenges. Therefore, the author of the article takes a bearish stance on the fund, recommending investors to explore other investment options with higher yields. Only when the yield approaches 10% would the author consider showing interest in the fund.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The SPDR Portfolio High Yield Bond ETF (SPHY) is a large and highly diversified high-yield exchange-traded fund (ETF) that seeks to provide investment results corresponding to the performance of the ICE BofA US High Yield Index. While it offers exposure to a substantial amount of USD-denominated high-yield debt, concerns have been raised about its overall performance, inadequate compensation for risks, and potential tax and inflation implications.
Fund Details
The objective of the SPDR Portfolio High Yield Bond ETF is to track the performance of the ICE BofA US High Yield Index. With a low management fee of 0.05%, this fund provides investors with an opportunity to gain exposure to over a trillion dollars of USD-denominated high-yield debt. The inclusion of various sectors, such as consumer cyclical, communications, and energy, provides diversification within the portfolio. However, it’s important to note that the portfolio’s quality is mixed, with a small portion being investment grade and the majority below investment grade.
Risks
Investing in the SPDR Portfolio High Yield Bond ETF comes with several risks. Default risk is one of the primary concerns, as high-yield bonds are more susceptible to issuer defaults compared to investment-grade bonds. Market liquidity risk is also a consideration, as the ETF may face challenges trading certain bonds due to limited market liquidity. Additionally, economic sensitivity risk arises from the fund’s exposure to economic conditions, which can negatively impact the performance of high-yield bonds. Spread risk is another factor to consider, as fluctuations in credit spreads can affect the fund’s returns. Lastly, market timing challenges exist, as accurately predicting market movements is difficult and can lead to suboptimal investment decisions.
Author’s Perspective
Taking a bearish view on the SPDR Portfolio High Yield Bond ETF, the author believes that investors are not adequately compensated for the risks associated with the fund. The concern lies in the fund’s performance since inception, which has been modest and diminished by taxes and inflation. Additionally, the author argues that the fund is not suitable for taxable accounts, considering the potential tax implications. As a recommendation, the author advises investors to explore alternative investment options offering higher yields that may better align with their risk tolerance and investment objectives.
Potential Risks for the High Yield Bond Market
In addition to the risks associated with the SPDR Portfolio High Yield Bond ETF, there are potential risks for the overall high-yield bond market. One such risk is the growing maturity wall, referring to the increasing number of high-yield bonds reaching their maturity dates within a specific period. This can create challenges for issuers to refinance their debt, potentially leading to increased defaults.
Another risk is the potential for higher borrowing costs. If interest rates rise or the creditworthiness of borrowers deteriorates, it could result in increased borrowing costs for issuers of high-yield bonds. This, in turn, may negatively impact their ability to meet their debt obligations.
Inflation is a concern as well, as rising inflation erodes the purchasing power of bond yields. This can lead to a decreased return on investment and potentially impact the value of high-yield bonds.
Lastly, economic downturns can pose risks to the high-yield bond market. During economic contractions, companies with weak financial positions may struggle to generate sufficient cash flow, increasing their chances of defaulting on their high-yield debt.
Market Considerations
It is worth considering the possibility that the factors mentioned regarding the risks of the high-yield bond market and the SPDR Portfolio High Yield Bond ETF may already be priced into the market. Investors often react to anticipated risks, which can be reflected in the current prices of high-yield bonds. Therefore, potential impacts may be partially or fully recognized, reducing the extent of negative surprises.
Additionally, the bond market may be influenced by aggressive interest rate cuts or government spending. These factors have the potential to support the high-yield bond market by stimulating economic growth or lowering borrowing costs for issuers. The market should be monitored for any indications of such developments.
Acknowledging Alternative Views
Although the author holds a bearish view on the SPDR Portfolio High Yield Bond ETF, it is important to acknowledge that there are potential factors supporting the fund. Market conditions can change, and the performance of high-yield bonds may evolve accordingly. Moreover, other market participants may have a different perspective, and their views should be considered.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the author’s perspective is that the SPDR Portfolio High Yield Bond ETF does not adequately compensate investors for the risks associated with the fund. The modest performance since inception, concerns about taxes and inflation, and the potential risks involved make the fund less attractive. The author advises disinterest in the fund until the yield approaches 10% to offer more substantial compensation for the risks involved. It is recommended that investors explore alternative investment options that may align more effectively with their risk tolerance and objectives. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview and analysis of the SPDR Portfolio High Yield Bond ETF, emphasizing the importance of risk assessment and offering a balanced perspective for investors to consider.
