Franklin International Core Dividend Tilt Index ETF is rated a buy for its superior risk-adjusted returns vs. the market benchmark VEA. DIVI's strategy focuses on dividend quality, delivering lower drawdowns and volatility without sacrificing total returns, outperforming VEA on several time horizons. The ETF offers a low expense ratio (0.09%) and strong downside protection, though liquidity remains a concern due to lower trading volume and higher bid/ask spreads.
DIVI stands out among international dividend ETFs due to its methodology emphasizing value, earnings stability, and profitability, not just high yield. The ETF's optimization process allows for growth exposure while maintaining a focus on stable dividends, avoiding typical value traps and sector concentration. DIVI's portfolio is highly diversified by stock and sector, with low concentration risk and a strong track record of superior risk-adjusted returns versus peers.
Franklin International Core Dividend Tilt Index ETF offers exposure to developed world equities, ignoring the U.S. and Canada. In the current iteration, DIVI is heavy in Japanese, UK, and Australian stocks. Financials and industrials are key sectors. By international dividend ETF standards, its expense ratio is wafer-thin at just 11 bps.
DIVI is a buy due to its broad diversification, solid capital appreciation, and dividend income from international equities. Compared to leading peer international dividend funds, DIVI has the lowest fees and strongest performance when considering capital appreciation and dividend yield. International equities are expected to perform well due to forecast interest rate cuts, relative currency strengths, and attractive valuations compared to U.S. stocks.