Although it has recently taken in assets, the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSEArca: IWM), the largest small-cap ETF has fallen out of favor with hedge funds in recent quarters. AlphaClone data “shows that the small-cap iShares Russell 2000 exchange-traded fund went from 11th most popular holding in third quarter of 2013, to the 13th most popular in the fourth quarter to the 18th most popular in the first quarter,” the Journal reported.
Other ETFs owned by hedge funds include the Market Vectors Gold Miners ETF (NYSEArca: GDX) and the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSEArca: XLE). Filings indicate Soros Fund Management and David Einhorn’s Greenlight Capital maintained GDX stakes in the first quarter with Soros adding to its position in the largest gold miners ETF. Soros also had a position in XLE.
Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF
ETF Trends editorial team contributed to this post. Tom Lydon’s clients own shares of EEM, GLD, IWM, LQD and SPY.