Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have revolutionised how traders access and invest in financial markets. In Singapore, a thriving finance hub, traders continually seek innovative strategies to gain a competitive edge.
While traditional ETF trading methods are effective, this article explores less conventional approaches experienced Singaporean traders can implement to potentially unlock new opportunities and diversify their portfolios.
Pair trading: Creating synthetic positions
Pair trading involves taking advantage of the relative performance of two correlated assets. While typically associated with individual stocks, this strategy can also be applied to ETFs. Traders can create a synthetic position by pairing two ETFs with a historical correlation. For instance, if a trader believes that one sector will outperform another, they can buy an ETF tracking the outperforming sector while shorting an ETF representing the underperforming sector.
This strategy allows traders to take advantageof the relative movement between the two assets, regardless of the overall market direction. However, conducting thorough research and ensuring the chosen ETFs have a historically stable correlation is essential to increase the likelihood of success.
Option writing: Generating income from ETFs
Option writing is a strategy that involves selling options contracts against an existing ETF position. This allows traders to generate income from the premiums collected. For instance, a trader holding an ETF may sell call options with strike prices above the current market price. If the options expire worthless, the trader keeps the premium as profit.
It’s crucial to understand the risks associated with option writing. If the ETF’s price rises significantly, the trader may be obligated to sell their ETF at the strike price, potentially missing out on further gains. Moreover, the premium earned may not offset the losses if the price falls substantially. Careful risk management and an understanding of options pricing are paramount when employing this strategy.
Rotational strategy: Capitalising on sector rotation
A rotational strategy dynamically shifts investments among different sectors or asset classes based on their relative strength or performance. Instead of holding a static allocation, traders continuously adjust their positions to align with changing market conditions. For example, during an economic recovery, a trader may rotate into cyclical sectors like industrials or consumer discretionary, anticipating they will outperform defensive sectors like utilities.
ETFs are an excellent vehicle for executing a rotational strategy, as they provide exposure to specific sectors or industries without the need to pick individual stocks. Traders can choose sector-specific ETFs that align with their rotational views, allowing for precise execution of their strategy. However, monitoring market trends and economic indicators closely is essential to make timely and informed rotational decisions.
Momentum trading: Riding the trend
Momentum trading involves identifying and capitalising on existing market trends. This strategy relies on the premise that assets that have shown strong performance in the past are likely to continue their upward trajectory. Traders employing this strategy typically buy ETFs that have demonstrated positive momentum and sell those showing signs of weakness.
To implement momentum trading with the best ETF to buy now, traders can utilise technical indicators like moving averages or trend-following oscillators. These tools can help identify potential entry and exit points based on the underlying ETF’s price movements. However, traders must exercise discipline and have a clear exit strategy, as momentum can change abruptly.
Pairing active management with ETFs
While ETFs are often associated with passive investing, they can also be integrated into an active management approach. Skilled fund managers in Singapore can use ETFs as building blocks within a broader portfolio strategy. For example, they can use ETFs to gain targeted exposure to specific markets or asset classes while managing other portfolio components.
This approach allows for a high level of customization, enabling managers to fine-tune the portfolio’s risk-return profile. By combining active management with ETFs’ cost efficiency and flexibility, Singapore traders can create diversified portfolios that align with their investment objectives and market views.
Short selling ETFs: Taking advantageof market downturns
Short-selling ETFs are an unconventional strategy that allows traders to take advantage of declining markets. This approach involves borrowing shares of an ETF from a broker and selling them to repurchase them at a lower price in the future. If successful, the trader pockets the difference as profit. Short selling can be particularly effective in bearish market conditions when many stocks and ETFs may be experiencing adverse price movements.
Traders must exercise caution when employing this strategy, as it carries significant risks. Unlike buying a stock or ETF with a limited potential loss (the entire investment amount), short selling has unlimited potential losses. If the price of the ETF rises instead of falling, the trader may face substantial losses.
With that said
Breaking new ground in ETF trading involves exploring innovative strategies that align with a trader’s risk tolerance, market outlook, and investment goals. Whether through pair trading, option writing, rotational strategies, momentum trading, or combining active management with ETFs, experienced traders in Singapore have diverse tools at their disposal.
However, it’s crucial to approach these strategies with a comprehensive understanding of the risks involved and to continually adapt to evolving market conditions. By incorporating these less conventional approaches, traders can potentially enhance their ability to navigate the complex world of ETF trading.
