ETFs

Exploring the Investment Potential of the iShares U.S. Oil Equipment & Services ETF (IEZ)

Published November 13, 2023

Introduction to IEZ ETF

The iShares U.S. Oil Equipment & Services ETF IEZ, which launched on May 1, 2006, is a passively managed exchange-traded fund that offers broad exposure to the energy equipment and services sector of the equity market. Passively managed ETFs have gained popularity among both institutional and retail investors due to their low cost, transparency, flexible trading, and tax efficiency, making them suitable for long-term investing strategies.

Why Choose Sector ETFs?

Sector ETFs, such as IEZ, allow investors to gain diversified exposure to specific industry sectors with a lower risk profile compared to individual stock investments. In the Zacks Industry classification, the energy equipment and services sector is ranked within the top 38%, indicating a favorable position within the broader market.

Understanding IEZ's Index Composition

IEZ aims to replicate the performance of the Dow Jones U.S. Select Oil Equipment & Services Index before fees and expenses. This index is a market capitalization-weighted index that reflects the performance of the U.S. oil equipment and services sector, including providers of equipment and services to oilfields and offshore platforms.

Fees and Expenses

The ETF is one of the more cost-efficient options in this sector, with an expense ratio of 0.40%. Additionally, it offers a dividend yield of 0.85% over the past 12 months.

Sector Exposure and Top Holdings

IEZ has a strong focus on the energy sector, with near 100% allocation in this domain. Among its top holdings, Schlumberger Nv SLB comprises the largest share. Notably, Baker Hughes BKR and Halliburton HAL, two industry giants with extensive global operations, also form a significant part of the ETF's portfolio. Collectively, the top 10 holdings represent around 75.96% of its total assets under management.

Performance and Risk Analysis

IEZ has experienced a year-to-date gain of approximately 5.23% and an annual increase of about 5.31% as of the latest data. The fund demonstrates considerable volatility with a beta of 1.95 and a standard deviation of 42.82% over the past three years, making it a higher risk option. The ETF has about 31 holdings, leading to a more concentrated exposure compared to its peers.

Alternatives to Consider

For investors looking for alternatives within the energy ETFs space, other options include the SPDR S&P Oil & Gas Equipment & Services ETF XES and the VanEck Oil Services ETF OIH, both of which track different industry-specific indexes and charge an expense ratio of 0.35%.

Concluding Thoughts

Investors interested in the energy sector, particularly oil equipment and services, may find IEZ to be a compelling investment option given its focus, cost structure, and diversified industry exposure. As with all investments, it's important to conduct thorough research and consider investment objectives prior to making any decisions.

ETF, Investment, Energy