iShares MSCI Intl Momentum Factor ETF (IMTM) offers ex-US momentum exposure but closely tracks broader international indices like IXUS. IMTM is overweight financials and industrials, making it highly sensitive to macroeconomic trends in countries like Japan, Canada, and Europe. Recent US growth prospects and rate decisions provide a near-term rally force for global markets, yet USD hedge value has diminished and sectoral differentiation is minor.
With the U.S. dollar weakening, one can consider international assets, especially equities, for diversification and currency tailwinds. IMTM offers exposure to developed international stocks with a momentum factor, avoiding U.S. equities and providing broad geographic diversification. IMTM has outperformed the popular VEA ETF over the past year, delivering higher returns and lower volatility, as shown by its superior Sharpe ratio.
In the one-year period ended June 2025, the S&P 500 Momentum Index rose 30%, essentially double the gain of the S&P 500. Momentum was the best-performing factor of the widely tracked benchmark, ahead of growth, free cash flow, and even high beta slices.
For investors seeking momentum, iShares MSCI Intl Momentum Factor ETF IMTM is probably on the radar. The fund just hit a 52-week high and is up 18% from its 52-week low of $34.65 per share.
iShares MSCI Intl Momentum Factor ETF offers exposure to momentum factors in international equity markets through factor-based strategies. IMTM tracks the MSCI World ex USA Momentum Index with 301 holdings, aiming to beat market cap-weighted indices with a low expense ratio. Sector composition favors Industrials, Financials, and Tech, but Japan's 42% allocation poses a risk despite strong sector diversification.