This Standout Europe Foreign Equities ETF May Surprise You
It's been a big year for ex-U.S. equities. Both broad international and market specific funds have delivered for ETF investors amid tariff concerns and a weakening U.S. dollar.
EWO: Valuations Still Look Cheap, But Probably Prudent To Book Profits Now
Since we last covered it, EWO has delivered a 35% return in 7 months and outperformed Eurozone and Global stocks by 1.46x and 1.30x, respectively. Despite Austria's improving GDP, growth is still expected to lag Europe in a big way, while consumption momentum is slowing and inflation risks are rising. CRE sector pressures are weighing on Austrian banks profitability this year, but EWO's top stock - Erste Group Bank AG is faring much better.
EWO: Financials And Cyclicals Explain The Poor Long-Term Performance
US stock valuations are extreme, so I'm seeking undervalued opportunities in overlooked markets like Austria. The iShares MSCI Austria ETF (EWO) offers exposure to Austrian stocks, with a 0.50% expense ratio, a 5.13% dividend yield, and only 19 holdings. Many of the holdings are cyclical, including banks, insurance companies, energy firms and construction-related companies.
EWO- Cheap Valuations And Better Growth Prospects Ahead
The iShares MSCI Austria ETF (EWO) has outperformed global and Eurozone stocks this year with a 16% YTD. We expect EWO to continue to fare well, as GDP growth prospects are now on the up after a long period of contraction, buoyed largely by better consumption trends. EWO offers compelling valuations with a P/E at a 37% discount to European stocks and a 50% discount to global stocks, alongside a 7% yield.
