Alpha Architect Tail Risk ETF employs a novel, three-part strategy combining protective puts (insurance) with Box Spreads and Put Spreads (cash generators) to offset the typical "negative carry" cost of hedging. The underperformance during market turmoil is attributed to the fund's protective puts being set too far OTM, making the hedge primarily a volatility (vega) play rather than a delta play. CAOS is not a new concept; it was converted from a legacy mutual fund (AVOLX) in March 2023. This conversion means the fund has a long performance history.
Alpha Architect Tail Risk ETF implements three options strategies to provide exposure to stocks and interest rates while expecting to benefit from a market crash. The fund's performance since March 2023 has outpaced short-term bonds and its main competitor, with very low volatility. The track record of CAOS shows it does exactly what it is supposed to do, but it is not a good hedge in a slow market downtrend.
The Alpha Architect Tail Risk ETF is recommended solely for risk management and mitigation, crucial for any portfolio today. Traditional performance metrics are inadequate; CAOS is designed to limit downside risk during market disruptions, making it a valuable hedge. The fund's complex options strategy aims for index exposure, risk control, and cash flow generation, but it hasn't distributed since 2021.
| BATS Exchange | US Country |
The fund operates as an actively managed exchange-traded fund (ETF), focusing on investments primarily in options contracts. These contracts are linked to the performance of securities within an index comprised of large-cap companies. By adopting this strategy, the fund seeks to leverage the market movements of significant, well-established companies to generate returns for its investors. The emphasis on large-cap entities signifies a preference for stability and recognizable growth potential in the market, catering to investors looking for a blend of security and opportunity within their investment portfolios.
This product involves active management strategies to curate a portfolio primarily composed of options contracts. These contracts derive their value from the performance of a carefully selected index of large-cap companies. Unlike traditional passive ETFs that track an index with little to no deviation, this actively managed ETF employs a strategic approach to option selection, aiming to capitalize on market trends and potential profit opportunities while managing risk.