The grass is looking greener for alternative energy-focused exchange traded funds (ETFs) because of major deals with solar-power companies. ETF volume rose as new contracts were announced for U.S.-based, First Solar (FSLR) and for China-based Trina Solar (TSL). Separately, each company signed new deals to expand production and sales of solar panels and modules. The green stocks seemed to add more green to the ETFs, reports Trang Ho of Investor’s Business Daily. Some of the alternative energy ETFs include:
- PowerShares WilderHill Clean Energy (PBW) – One of the most popular and oldest of the group, PBW is up 30.1% for the year.
- PowerShares Global Clean Energy (PBD) – Launched just a month ago, PBD holdings include 89 U.S. and foreign companies that make renewable energy and technology that help make cleaner energy.
- PowerShares Cleantech Portfolio (PZD) – PZD invests in companies that improve operational performance, productivity or efficiency, while reducing costs, inputs, energy consumption, waste or pollution. This ETF is up 27.2% year-to-date.
- Market Vectors Global Alternative Energy (GEX) – GEX tracks the Ardour Global Index, which holds 30 stocks. GEX launched in May and is up 15% for the month.
- Claymore/LGA Green (GRN) – This ETF holds companies with the best combination of environmental performance trends respective to their industry. Most of the holdings are large caps. GRN is up 7.1% for the year.
The opinions and forecasts expressed herein are solely those of Tom Lydon, and may not actually come to pass. Mr. Lydon serves as an independent trustee of certain mutual funds and ETFs that are managed by Guggenheim Investments; however, any opinions or forecasts expressed herein are solely those of Mr. Lydon and not those of Guggenheim Funds, Guggenheim Investments, Guggenheim Specialized Products, LLC or any of their affiliates. Information on this site should not be used or construed as an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation for any product.