Additionally, LyondellBasell Industries (NYSE: LYB), which makes up 7.5% of XLB, rose 34.0% year-to-date as the strength of American oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids production help support margins. [A Lyondell Lift for This Materials ETF]
In a rising bull market, momentum plays are also garnering greater attention. Specifically, the PowerShares DWA Basic Materials Momentum Portfolio (NYSEArca: PYZ) has outperformed, rising 12.4% year-to-date. PYZ was one of 10 PowerShares ETFs that converted to tracking momentum-driven indices courtesy of Dorsey Wright & Associates. Due to its weighting methodology, PYZ also has a heavier tilt toward chemicals 82.4%, followed by metals & mining 11.2% and oil & gas 2.7%. [Momentum Materials Masterpiece With This ETF]
Materials Select Sector SPDR
For more information on the materials sector, visit our materials category.
Max Chen contributed to this article.