While the Nasdaq Biotech Index and, subsequently, IBB can be impressive summertime performers, that does not mean the same can be said of the broader healthcare sector.
From May through the end of August, the Health Care Select Sector SPDR (NYSEArca: XLV), on a historical basis, only ranks as one of two best sector SPDRs, on one occasion: In June. Even in that case, XLV being the second-best in June means it is just less bad than its sector counterparts because, dating back to 1999, XLV’s usually posts a modest June loss, according to CXO Advisory.
XLV, the largest healthcare ETF by assets and home to a 20.5% biotech weight, averages small gains in July and August.
iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology ETF
