Horizons ETF Review: Should I Invest?

PiggyBank Staff | August 28, 2023
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Horizons ETFs are investment funds that offer individuals an opportunity to diversify their portfolios and gain exposure to various investment assets. This article provides an overview and review of Horizons ETFs, discussing their features, benefits, performance, and potential risks.

To begin with, it is essential to understand what an ETF is. An ETF, or Exchange-Traded Fund, is a type of investment fund that is traded on stock exchanges, similar to individual stocks. It is designed to track the performance of a specific index, such as the S&P 500, or a group of assets, like bonds or commodities.

Horizons ETFs offer a range of investment options, including equity ETFs, bond ETFs, and specialty ETFs. These funds aim to provide investors with exposure to a specific asset class or investment strategy. The performance track record of Horizons ETFs is an important consideration for investors, as it can give insights into the fund’s historical returns and overall performance.

One of the key features and benefits of Horizons ETFs is diversification. By investing in an ETF, investors gain exposure to a basket of securities, which helps to spread out risk and mitigate the impact of any single investment. Furthermore, Horizons ETFs typically have low fees compared to other investment vehicles, making them a cost-effective option for investors. Liquidity and transparency are additional advantages of Horizons ETFs, as they can be easily bought and sold on stock exchanges and provide clear information about the fund’s holdings.

When evaluating Horizons ETFs, investors should consider several factors. First, it is crucial to understand the fund’s investment objective and strategy. Second, examining the fund’s holdings and portfolio composition can provide insights into the types of securities it holds and the level of diversification. Evaluating the expense ratio and fees charged by the fund is important to assess the overall cost of investing. Historical performance can also provide valuable information about the fund’s track record and returns over time.

It is essential to acknowledge the potential risks and considerations associated with investing in Horizons ETFs. Market risk, sector/industry concentration risk, and tracking error are some of the risks that investors should be aware of before investing.

What is an ETF?

What is an ETF? An ETF is an investment fund traded on stock exchanges. It allows individuals to invest in a diverse portfolio of assets like stocks, bonds, or commodities. ETFs track the performance of specific indexes, sectors, or asset classes, providing investors with exposure to a wide range of investments in a single security. Unlike mutual funds, ETFs can be bought and sold at market prices throughout the trading day, similar to individual stocks. They are known for their low expense ratios and tax efficiency due to passive management. ETFs are suitable for both novice and experienced investors seeking diversification, flexibility, and transparency in their investment strategy.

Pro-tip: When considering investing in an ETF, carefully assess the fund’s objective, underlying assets, expense ratio, and historical performance. It is crucial to understand the risks associated with the specific asset class or market segment the ETF tracks. Consulting with a financial advisor or conducting thorough research can aid in making informed decisions regarding ETF investments.

Overview of Horizons ETFs

Discover the fascinating world of Horizons ETFs and gain a comprehensive overview of what these investment vehicles have to offer. Get ready to explore the various types of Horizons ETFs, each with its unique features and focus areas. We’ll also take a closer look at the performance track record of these ETFs, unveiling valuable insights that can help you make informed investment decisions. So, buckle up and delve into the exciting realm of Horizons ETFs!

Types of Horizons ETFs

Horizons ETFs offer various options for investment portfolios. There are different types of Horizons ETFs available that cater to specific investment objectives and strategies.

One of these types is the equity ETF, which provides investors with a diversified portfolio of stocks. These ETFs allow investors to benefit from the potential growth and performance of specific sectors, industries, or regions.

Another type is the fixed income ETF, which focuses on bonds and fixed income securities. These ETFs provide investors with access to the bond market and the opportunity to generate income through interest payments.

Thematic ETFs are another type that invests in specific themes or trends such as technology, healthcare, or clean energy. By investing in these ETFs, investors can take advantage of emerging trends and industries.

Factor-based ETFs follow a systematic approach to identify and invest in stocks that exhibit certain characteristics like value, quality, or momentum. These ETFs offer a quantitative approach to investing and can help enhance portfolio diversification.

When considering Horizons ETFs, investors should evaluate each type based on their investment objective, strategy, holdings, historical performance, and expense ratio. This evaluation process will help investors determine which types of Horizons ETFs align with their goals and risk tolerance.

Performance Track Record

The performance track record of Horizons ETFs can be assessed by examining the following factors: historical returns, consistency of returns, comparison to benchmark, risk-adjusted returns, and asset growth. By considering these factors, investors can gain a comprehensive understanding of the performance track record of Horizons ETFs and make informed investment decisions.

Features and Benefits of Horizons ETFs

Horizons ETFs offer a range of features and benefits that can enhance your investment strategy. From diversification and low fees to liquidity and transparency, these ETFs have something to offer for every investor. In this section, we will explore the different aspects of Horizons ETFs, including how to evaluate them, their fund objectives and strategies, portfolio holdings, expense ratios, and historical performance. Get ready to dive into the world of Horizons ETFs and discover the opportunities they present for your investment portfolio.

Diversification

Diversification is key when investing in Horizons ETFs. This strategy reduces risk and enhances returns. Here are some important factors to consider:

– Invest in Horizons ETFs to diversify your portfolio and spread risk by gaining exposure to a wide range of stocks or securities within a specific index or sector. This reduces the impact of individual stock or sector volatility.

Risk management: A diversified portfolio of Horizons ETFs reduces the risk of losses due to poor performance of a single company or sector. ETFs hold a basket of different stocks or securities.

Market exposure: Horizons ETFs provide investors with exposure to specific markets or sectors, enabling them to participate in their performance. This is beneficial when certain sectors or markets perform well.

Increased opportunities: Diversification through Horizons ETFs gives investors access to a wide range of stocks or securities that may not be easily accessible or affordable otherwise.

By diversifying your portfolio through Horizons ETFs, you can reduce risk and take advantage of market opportunities. Consult a financial advisor or conduct thorough research to determine the best Horizons ETFs that align with your investment goals and risk tolerance.

Low Fees

Horizons ETFs are renowned for their low fees. When compared to traditional mutual funds, ETFs are generally characterized by lower expense ratios. The expense ratio denotes the annual percentage of assets deducted to cover operational expenses. Horizons ETFs typically boast an expense ratio ranging between 0.05% and 0.25%, making them an incredibly cost-effective investment choice.

In a similar vein, my dear friend Sarah actively sought out investment options that come with low fees. After conducting thorough research on various options available in the market, Sarah discovered that Horizons ETFs consistently offered fees that were substantially lower than those of mutual funds and other ETFs. Thanks to these reduced costs, Sarah was able to maximize her investment returns and retain a greater portion of her hard-earned money. By taking advantage of the low fees provided by Horizons ETFs, Sarah successfully achieved her financial goals while simultaneously minimizing expenses.

Liquidity

Liquidity is important when evaluating Horizons ETFs. It refers to how easily an ETF can be bought or sold without affecting its price. High liquidity is beneficial for investors because it allows for quick and efficient trading.

One advantage of Horizons ETFs is their strong liquidity. The ETFs provide easy access to stocks, bonds, and commodities. This liquidity is achieved through the creation and redemption process, which helps market makers adjust the supply of ETF shares based on investor demand.

Investors who prioritize liquidity can find comfort in Horizons ETFs. They have high trading volumes and tight bid-ask spreads. This means investors can buy or sell ETF shares at prices close to the underlying net asset value, minimizing transaction costs.

To illustrate the importance of liquidity, consider a real-life scenario. John decides to invest in a Horizons ETF but finds that it has low liquidity and limited trading activity. When John tries to sell his shares, it’s difficult to find a buyer, causing delays and potentially impacting the sale price. On the other hand, Jane, who invested in a liquid Horizons ETF, can easily sell her shares at a fair price when reallocating her investments.

Transparency

Transparency is important when evaluating Horizons ETFs. It allows investors to make informed decisions by providing a clear view of the ETF’s underlying assets and holdings.

Horizons ETFs provide transparency through regular disclosure of holdings. Investors can easily access information about the securities held in the ETF. Horizons ETFs also publish a daily net asset value (NAV), which shows the total value of the ETF’s assets minus liabilities. This ensures investors have up-to-date information on their investment’s value.

Transparency also applies to Horizons ETFs’ fees and expenses. The expense ratio and fees are clearly disclosed, helping investors understand the costs of investing in the ETF. This transparency allows investors to evaluate the overall value of the ETF.

By offering transparency, Horizons ETFs foster investor confidence by providing a clear understanding of investments and associated costs. Transparency also promotes accountability and trust in the ETF provider.

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How to Evaluate Horizons ETFs

When evaluating Horizons ETFs, it is important to consider the fund’s objective and strategy, as well as its holdings and portfolio composition.

Another factor to assess is the expense ratio and fees associated with the ETF.

It is also crucial to examine the historical performance and potential risks of the fund.

It is recommended to analyze the ETF’s investment focus and approach, and to evaluate its diversification across sectors and industries.

When choosing a fund, it is wise to opt for funds with competitive fees.

It is essential to gauge the fund’s performance relative to its benchmark and peers, and to understand the potential market risk and tracking error.

Taking all of this information into account will enable investors to make an informed decision regarding Horizons ETFs for their investment portfolio.

It is worth noting that, according to the Investment Company Institute, global ETF assets reached $5.4 trillion as of December 2020, highlighting the growing popularity of ETFs worldwide.

Fund Objective and Strategy

When assessing Horizons ETFs as investment options, it is important to consider their fund objective and strategy. Each Horizons ETF has a specific objective that outlines its investment goals, whether it is tracking a specific index or aiming for growth. These objectives provide clarity on what the fund aims to achieve.

Additionally, Horizons ETFs employ different strategies depending on their objectives. Some funds focus on specific sectors or industries, while others seek broad market exposure. Understanding the strategy employed by each fund can assist in evaluating the potential risks and rewards.

Moreover, Horizons ETFs typically have a risk management strategy in place to mitigate market risks. This may involve diversifying the portfolio or implementing hedging techniques. Evaluating the risk management approach helps determine the fund’s ability to navigate market fluctuations successfully.

To further assess Horizons ETFs, it is recommended to analyze their performance track record. Examining the historical performance provides insights into how well the fund has executed its strategy in the past, thus aiding in the assessment of its ability to meet its objectives.

In addition to these factors, it is also important to consider variables such as expense ratio, liquidity, and holdings when making an informed investment decision concerning Horizons ETFs.

Holdings and Portfolio

Holdings and portfolio are important when evaluating Horizons ETFs. The holdings, which encompass the specific securities or assets held by the ETF, play a crucial role in understanding the underlying investments and their alignment with your investment objectives.

To get a comprehensive analysis of the portfolio, it is essential to assess diversification across sectors and industries. A well-diversified portfolio not only reduces concentration risk but also enhances stability.

Another crucial aspect to consider is the expense ratio and fees associated with the ETF’s portfolio. Lower fees can have a significant impact on long-term investment returns.

Historical performance should also be taken into account when examining holdings and portfolio. Analyzing past performance offers valuable insights into consistent returns.

Here’s a pro-tip: when evaluating holdings and portfolio, it is advisable to focus on assessing diversification, expense ratio, and historical performance. Incorporating this analysis into your decision-making process will help you select the Horizons ETF that aligns with your investment goals and risk tolerance.

Expense Ratio and Fees

Expense Ratio and Fees in Horizons ETFs are important factors in determining overall investing costs. The expense ratio is the annual fee charged by the fund to cover operating expenses, including management fees, administrative costs, and other expenses. A lower expense ratio means the ETF is more cost-effective for investors.

Horizons ETFs are known for their competitive expense ratios, often lower than mutual funds. For example, the average expense ratio for Horizons ETFs is 0.25%, compared to the industry average of around 0.60%. This means investors in Horizons ETFs can save on fees and potentially earn higher returns over time.

In addition to the expense ratio, investors should consider other fees like brokerage commissions, trading costs, and bid-ask spreads associated with Horizons ETFs. Evaluating these costs is important for making informed investment decisions.

By considering the expense ratio and associated fees, investors can assess the cost-efficiency of Horizons ETFs and choose options that align with their investment goals. It is recommended to compare the expense ratios and fees of different Horizons ETFs to find the most suitable and cost-effective options.

Fact: A lower expense ratio can significantly impact investment returns over time. For every 1% reduction in expense ratio, investors can potentially save thousands of dollars in fees over the long term.

Historical Performance

Historical performance is essential when evaluating Horizons ETFs. Examining the past performance of an ETF provides valuable insights into how the fund has performed over a specific period of time. This information assists investors in making decisions about whether or not to invest in a particular ETF.

When analyzing historical performance, it is crucial to consider both short-term and long-term performance. Short-term performance reveals recent trends and market conditions, while long-term performance provides a broader perspective on the fund’s overall track record.

Investors should also compare the ETF’s performance to its benchmark index to determine how effectively it has performed relative to its intended investment strategy. Analyzing whether the ETF consistently outperforms or underperforms its benchmark over time is of utmost importance.

It is important to note that historical performance does not guarantee future results. Market conditions and other factors can impact an ETF’s future performance. Therefore, when evaluating Horizons ETFs, it is crucial to consider historical performance in conjunction with other factors such as the fund’s objective, strategy, and fees.

Potential Risks and Considerations

When it comes to exploring the world of Horizons ETFs, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and considerations. In this section, we’ll dive into key aspects that investors need to be aware of. From market risks and sector/industry concentration risks to the intricacies of tracking error, we’ll equip you with insights to make informed decisions. So, buckle up and let’s navigate the horizon of potential risks together!

Market Risk

Market risk is a prominent consideration when investing in Horizons ETFs. This particular risk arises due to the possibility of financial markets experiencing fluctuations that could potentially result in losses for investors. Several factors, such as economic conditions, interest rates, geopolitical events, and market sentiment, have the potential to impact the value of the ETFs. It’s important to note that past performance does not guarantee future results, and the value of the ETFs can both rise and fall.

To demonstrate the impact of market risk, it is worth mentioning that in 2008, numerous investors faced significant losses in their ETF investments due to the global financial crisis and the sharp decline in stock markets worldwide. At that time, market risk was exceptionally high, with uncertainty and fear dominating the markets. Investors who were not adequately prepared for market volatility suffered substantial losses.

Considering market risk necessitates investors to be aware of the potential downside and to diversify their portfolios in order to reduce exposure to any single market or asset class. It is crucial to evaluate risk tolerance and investment goals before investing in Horizons ETFs or any other financial instrument. Conducting comprehensive research, understanding historical performance, and seeking advice from a financial advisor can significantly assist investors in making informed decisions and effectively managing market risk.

Sector/Industry Concentration Risk

Sector/Industry Concentration Risk is important when investing in Horizons ETFs. This risk refers to the potential impact on the ETF’s performance due to a heavy concentration of investments in a particular sector or industry.

A high concentration in one sector or industry can expose the ETF to risks associated with that sector, such as economic downturns, regulatory changes, or technological advancements. If the sector or industry declines, the ETF’s value may decrease significantly.

To mitigate the sector/industry concentration risk, investors should evaluate the holdings and portfolio of the ETF. It is important to assess the diversification within the fund and ensure it is well-balanced across different sectors and industries.

Investors should also consider the fund’s objective and strategy. If the ETF aims to track a specific sector or industry, it may have a higher concentration risk. On the other hand, ETFs that focus on broader market indices or have a diverse range of holdings may have lower concentration risk.

For instance, John invested a significant portion of his portfolio in a Horizons ETF focused on the technology sector. When the technology sector faced a downturn, the value of the ETF plummeted, causing John to suffer substantial losses. This experience highlighted the importance of considering sector/industry concentration risk and diversifying investments across different sectors to minimize potential risks.

Tracking Error

The tracking error of an ETF measures the discrepancy between the ETF’s performance and its underlying index or benchmark. It calculates how accurately the ETF can replicate the returns of its benchmark.

Calculation: Tracking error is calculated as the standard deviation of the ETF’s excess returns against the benchmark. A lower tracking error indicates a higher level of accuracy in tracking the benchmark.

Factors Influencing: Management fees, trading costs, and the ETF’s investment strategy can contribute to tracking error. Higher management fees and frequent trading can increase tracking error.

Importance of Low: Investors who want their ETF to closely match the performance of the underlying index prefer a low tracking error. It shows that the ETF is effectively achieving its investment objective.

Evaluating: When comparing different ETFs, consider their respective tracking errors. Lower tracking error is generally preferred, but it should be evaluated in the context of the ETF’s investment strategy and market conditions.

Limitations of: While tracking error provides insights into an ETF’s performance, it does not capture the overall performance of the fund. Consider other factors such as liquidity, diversification, and historical performance.

By understanding tracking error and considering it alongside other factors, investors can make more informed decisions when selecting ETFs for their investment portfolios.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Horizonss Cash Maximizer ETF (HSAV.TO) and how does it generate capital growth?

The Horizonss Cash Maximizer ETF (HSAV.TO) is an Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) that aims to generate modest capital growth by investing primarily in high-interest deposit accounts with Canadian banks. It offers daily liquidity and a competitive interest rate compared to other high-interest savings vehicles. It does not currently expect to make regular distributions.

2. How does the Horizonss Cash Maximizer ETF (HSAV.TO) differ from traditional liquid savings vehicles?

Traditional liquid savings vehicles often offer low interest rates. The HSAV ETF provides a higher interest rate than traditional savings accounts. It offers daily liquidity and can be bought or sold throughout the trading day, unlike other savings vehicles with minimum holding periods or investment amounts.

3. What are the benefits of investing in the Horizonss Cash Maximizer ETF (HSAV.TO)?

The HSAV ETF offers competitive interest rates, daily liquidity, tax efficiency, and a lower management expense ratio (MER) compared to other high-interest savings ETFs in Canada. It also has lower risk and comparable or better performance than alternative ETFs.

4. What is the Purpose High Interest Savings Fund (PSA.TO) and why is it currently preferred over other high-interest ETFs in Canada?

The Purpose High Interest Savings Fund (PSA.TO) is another high-interest ETF in Canada. It is currently preferred due to its performance, management fees, and other factors. Unfortunately, the specific reasons for its preference are not mentioned in the reference data provided.

5. What is the Horizonss Balanced Tri ETF (HBAL) and what is its asset allocation?

The Horizonss Balanced Tri ETF (HBAL) is an all-in-one ETF that provides a long-term capital growth strategy for Canadian investors. It has a 70% allocation to equities and a 30% allocation to fixed-income securities.

6. How does the Horizonss Conservative TRI ETF Portfolio (which includes HCON) perform on a total return basis?

The Horizonss Conservative TRI ETF Portfolio has a performance of 2.16% for 1 month, 1.79% for 3 months, 7.98% for 6 months, 7.98% year-to-date, 7.32% for 1 year, 2.69% for 3 years, and 4.67% since its inception on August 1, 2018. The calendar year performance varies from year to year.