iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (IEMG)
IEMG: Another Double-Digit Upside Doable In 2025 For Emerging Markets
IEMG is outperforming the S&P 500 YTD, with a 21% return versus 8%, and I reiterate my buy rating. The ETF offers broad, low-cost emerging market exposure, attractive valuation at 13.7x earnings, and a solid 3%+ dividend yield. Technical momentum is strong, with a recent breakout above $59 and a bullish trend targeting $70 in 2025.
IEMG: There Are Better Options For International Exposure
The iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF gives investors access to emerging markets with a portfolio of 2700+ stocks that includes companies from all market capitalizations. While the fund has had brief periods of impressive gains, it has only returned 9.6% in cumulative capital appreciation over the last 10 years. IEMG is heavily weighted in Asian stocks. Stocks from China, India, Taiwan, and South Korea make up almost 75% of the fund's portfolio.
IEMG: Proceed With Caution Amid Uncertainty, Potential Tariffs Under New Trump Administration
IEMG's valuation is fair, but its earnings growth rate is decelerating through 2026, making it less attractive compared to the S&P 500. The fund's lower exposure to the technology sector and potential tariffs from the new Trump administration add to its weaker growth outlook. Currency risk is significant for IEMG, as a strong U.S. dollar negatively impacts its price performance.
IEMG: Looking Ahead To A Bullish 2025 For EM (Rating Upgrade)
I upgrade IEMG from hold to buy due to low valuations, potential dollar weakness, and strong technical indicators. Despite a 19% return, IEMG lags the S&P 500 but may benefit from China's stimulus and India's growth. IEMG offers a low expense ratio, solid dividend yield, and potential foreign tax credit, making it ideal for long-term investors.
Emerging Market ETFs Roar Back to New Heights
Emerging market ETFs soared to a two-and-a-half-year high, driven by new Chinese stimulus, a big Fed rate cut and hopes of further easing, and a weak dollar.
IEMG: The Case For Emerging Markets
The iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF tracks small, mid, and large-cap emerging market stocks, primarily in China, India, and Taiwan. The ETF has underperformed the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust in 2024 and over 3, 5, and 10-year timeframes. This underperformance has resulted in IEMG, offering significantly higher earnings and dividend yields relative to the SPY.
