ETF liquidity and trading best practices
An ETF is a unique type of investment vehicle that combines the diversification benefits of a mutual fund with the intraday trading flexibility of a stock. While these aspects of ETFs are generally well known, the liquidity of ETFs is frequently misunderstood. Trading volume, for example, is mistakenly thought of as the only indicator of ETF liquidity, but this on-screen activity is usually only the tip of the liquidity iceberg.
The multiple layers of ETF liquidity
The unique structure of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has led to the creation of three layers of liquidity: on-screen liquidity, dealer inventory, and the liquidity of the underlying basket of securities. While technological innovations allow individuals to tap the first layer from virtually any computer or mobile device, the deeper layers of liquidity are easily taken advantage of through a broker-assisted trade.
Best practices for ETF trading
Although ETFs commonly cost less than their active mutual fund counterparts, investors have to pay a commission on each trade. In addition, their low-cost structure is a built-in part of well-executed trading. For that reason, it can matter whether investors choose to trade on-screen, using the topmost layer of ETF liquidity, or make broker-assisted trades, through which they may access the deeper and most cost-effective layers of ETF liquidity.
To help ensure best-execution results, investors should ask two questions to decide whether to execute a trade independently or with broker assistance: Is the trade small or large? And, Is the trade urgent?
Learn more about multifactor ETF investing here.
1 The S&P 500 Index tracks the performance of 500 of the largest publicly traded companies in the United States. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Past performance does not guarantee future results. 2 A held order must be promptly executed so that the request is immediately filled. Due to the urgent nature of the transaction, traders generally have little discretion when finding a price and may be forced to match the highest bid or offer the lowest selling price. Held orders are used by investors who want to quickly change their exposure to a certain stock or group of stocks.
Important disclosures
The trading strategies shown are for informational purposes only. Following these strategies does not guarantee favorable trading experiences or executions. Trading practices are specific to an investor’s needs and goals at any given time period, and are subject to change.
Investing involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. There is no guarantee that a fund’s investment strategy will be successful. John Hancock Multifactor ETF shares are bought and sold at market price (not NAV), and are not individually redeemed from the fund. Brokerage commissions will reduce returns.