Exchange traded funds that invest in Canada have benefited from the move higher in commodities prices due to the country’s strong presence in natural resources and energy markets.
The ETFs have been supported by solid third quarter profit at major oil companies, the European Central Bank rate cut and hopes the Greek bailout will survive. [ETF Chart of the Day: Canada]
Commodities have rallied after the European Central Bank decided to cut the benchmark lending rate to 1.25% to help alleviate the Eurozone debt crisis. [Canada ETF Falls With Gold Miner Stocks]
Major Canadian oil companies such as Canadian Natural Resources have led the energy sector higher on healthy third quarter profits. The company gained 40% in third quarter profit and analysts are calling for a 17% rise in profit in 2012 for the company. [Using Single-Country ETFs to Invest in Sectors, Diversify]
According to the Petroleum Services Association of Canada, stronger oil prices helped to project Canadian oil and natural gas drilling prospects up 10% for next year.
The iShares MSCI Canada Index (NYSEArca: EWC) can be played as an oil and energy proxy, as well as a diversification fund for international stock exposure. The fund managed a 15% gain in October. The oil industry represents almost 20% of the fund. Canada has managed to outperform international equities this year.