In this deep-dive episode, special guests Paul Riccardella, Richard Ho, and your host, Kevin Prins, provide a careful analysis of factor ETFs—from their early history to how they are constructed. They also discuss MSCI’s unique methodology and several prudent ways to avoid value traps.

Kevin Prins is the Managing Director and Head of Distribution for ETFs and Digital Distribution at BMO Global Asset Management. He is joined on the podcast by Paul Riccardella, Executive Director of Client Coverage at MSCI, and Richard Ho, Vice President of ETF Distribution at BMO Global Asset Management.

ETFs mentioned in the podcast:

BMO MSCI USA High Quality Index ETF (Hedged Units) (Ticker: ZUQ.F)

BMO MSCI USA High Quality Index ETF (Ticker: ZUQ)

BMO MSCI USA High Quality Index ETF (USD Units) (Ticker: ZUQ.U)

BMO MSCI Canada Value Index ETF (Ticker: ZVC)

BMO MSCI USA Value Index ETF (Ticker ZVU)

BMO MSCI All Country World High Quality Index ETF (Ticker: ZGQ)

BMO MSCI India ESG Leaders Index ETF (Ticker: ZID)

BMO MSCI China ESG Leaders Index ETF (Ticker: ZCH)

Disclaimers: 

The viewpoints expressed by the Portfolio Manager represent their assessment of the markets at the time of publication. Those views are subject to change without notice at any time. The information contained herein is not, and should not be construed as, investment, tax or legal advice to any party. Investments should be evaluated relative to the individual’s investment objectives and professional advice should be obtained with respect to any circumstance. Any statement that necessarily depends on future events may be a forward-looking statement. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. 

Any statement that necessarily depends on future events may be a forward-looking statement. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. They involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Although such statements are based on assumptions that are believed to be reasonable, there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from expectations. Investors are cautioned not to rely unduly on any forward-looking statements. In connection with any forward-looking statements, investors should carefully consider the areas of risk described in the most recent prospectus. 

The BMO ETFs or securities referred to herein are not sponsored, endorsed or promoted by MSCI Inc. (“MSCI”), and MSCI bears no liability with respect to any such BMO ETFs or securities or any index on which such BMO ETFs or securities are based. The prospectus of the BMO ETFs contains a more detailed description of the limited relationship MSCI has with BMO Asset Management Inc. and any related BMO ETFs.

Commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investments in exchange traded funds. Please read the ETF Facts or prospectus of the BMO ETFs before investing. Exchange traded funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

For a summary of the risks of an investment in the BMO ETFs, please see the specific risks set out in the BMO ETF’s prospectus. BMO ETFs trade like stocks, fluctuate in market value and may trade at a discount to their net asset value, which may increase the risk of loss. Distributions are not guaranteed and are subject to change and/or elimination.

BMO ETFs are managed by BMO Asset Management Inc., which is an investment fund manager and a portfolio manager, and a separate legal entity from Bank of Montreal.

This podcast is for information purposes. The information contained herein is not, and should not be construed as, investment, tax or legal advice to any party. Particular investments and/or trading strategies should be evaluated relative to the individual’s investment objectives and professional advice should be obtained with respect to any circumstance.

“BMO (M-bar roundel symbol)” is a registered trademark of Bank of Montreal, used under licence.