Exchange traded funds (ETFs) are known for their transparency. Many of the companies held in them, however, can be based in other countries. If that’s the case, it’s something you want to know. But how do you find out?
Naturally, the question doesn’t apply to ETFs that aren’t marketed as international or global funds. (What ETFs are and how to use them.)
Matt Krantz for USA Today says that to find out the broad geographic breakdown or the home countries of specific stocks, check the website of the company sponsoring the ETF. These websites usually have a “holdings” area that breaks down this information overall, and a link to an annual or semi-annual report that gets specific for each stock.
It’s that simple. In fact, the provider’s pages are loaded with information about their funds, and many also have educational articles. If you’re doing some research on a fund, it’s worth a stop by their sites. Here’s a list of the ETF providers you can use as a starting point.
For more stories about ETFs, visit 0ur ETF 101 category.
The opinions and forecasts expressed herein are solely those of Tom Lydon, and may not actually come to pass. 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.