Overview
Introducing First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund: A Leader in Growth Investing
Overview
First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund is an actively-managed exchange-traded fund (ETF) that seeks to provide capital appreciation by investing in a diversified portfolio of large-capitalization growth stocks. The fund's investment philosophy is anchored on the AlphaDEX stock-selection methodology, which identifies and ranks companies based on their potential for delivering superior returns over the long term.
Investment Strategy
The fund's portfolio consists of up to 125 large-cap stocks with a market capitalization of at least $10 billion. These stocks are selected using the AlphaDEX methodology, which combines quantitative and fundamental analysis to identify companies with strong growth potential.
The AlphaDEX model evaluates companies across multiple factors, including:
- Earnings per share growth
- Sales growth
- Return on equity
- Price momentum
- Analyst ratings
Stocks that rank highly in this model are assigned a higher weighting within the fund's portfolio.
Performance
Since its inception in 2011, First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund has consistently outperformed its benchmark, the Russell 1000 Growth Index. Over the past five years, the fund has delivered an annualized return of over 15%, compared to the index's return of approximately 12%.
Benefits of Investing
Investing in First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund offers several benefits:
- Potential for growth: The fund's focus on growth stocks provides investors with the opportunity to participate in the potential growth of high-performing companies.
- Diversification: The fund's diversified portfolio reduces risk by spreading investments across multiple sectors and industries.
- Active management: The fund is actively managed by experienced portfolio managers, who continually monitor and adjust the portfolio to meet its investment objectives.
- Tax efficiency: ETFs like First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund are generally more tax-efficient than traditional mutual funds due to their lower turnover rates.
Suitability
First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund is suitable for investors with a long-term investment horizon and a moderate to high risk tolerance. The fund is designed for investors seeking potential growth through exposure to large-cap companies with strong fundamentals.
Investment Details
- Ticker symbol: FCG
- Expense ratio: 0.50%
- Minimum investment: $50
- Morningstar Category: Large Growth Blend
Business model
Business Model of First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
Investment Objective: To provide long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in large-capitalization growth stocks.
Investment Strategy:
- Employs the AlphaDEX methodology, which ranks stocks based on a combination of factors, including growth, momentum, and volatility.
- Selects the top-ranked stocks from the Russell 1000 Growth Index.
- Aims to replicate the performance of the index while minimizing tracking error.
Revenue Model:
- Charges a management fee, typically around 0.60% of assets under management.
Advantages over Competitors:
1. Active Management with Index Tracking:
- Provides active management without the high fees associated with traditional actively managed funds.
- Aims to outperform the benchmark while maintaining a similar risk profile.
2. Enhanced AlphaDEX Methodology:
- Utilizes the AlphaDEX methodology, which has been shown to generate alpha over traditional indexing strategies.
- Ranks stocks based on forward-looking factors, offering potential for growth.
3. Diversification and Risk Control:
- Invests in a wide range of large-cap growth stocks, providing diversification.
- Limits turnover and volatility, resulting in a smoother investment experience.
4. Transparency and Tax Efficiency:
- Follows an index-based strategy, ensuring transparency and predictability in portfolio construction.
- Distributes capital gains infrequently, potentially reducing tax liability for investors.
5. Strong Track Record:
- The AlphaDEX methodology has a proven track record of outperforming the benchmark over long periods.
- The First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund has consistently delivered superior returns compared to peers.
6. Low Management Fee:
- The management fee is competitive compared to similar actively managed funds.
- Provides investors with a cost-effective way to access growth-oriented investments.
Outlook
Outlook for First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund (FTGX)
Overview
FTGX is an actively managed exchange-traded fund (ETF) that seeks to track the performance of the AlphaDEX Large Cap Growth Index, a composite of large-capitalization U.S. companies considered to have strong growth potential.
Investment Strategy
- Actively selects stocks based on a proprietary AlphaDEX risk management system that utilizes various fundamental and technical factors.
- Focuses on companies with high growth expectations, strong earnings momentum, and favorable industry trends.
- Employs a quantitative optimization process to manage risk and volatility within the portfolio.
Market Outlook
Current Market Conditions:
- The U.S. stock market has been in a bullish trend since the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by low interest rates, economic recovery, and strong corporate earnings.
- The growth sector has outperformed value stocks due to high demand for technology and innovation companies.
Outlook for Large Cap Growth Companies:
- Large-cap growth companies are expected to continue to benefit from the ongoing technological advancements, consumer spending, and globalization.
- However, rising interest rates may pose a challenge to high-growth stocks that typically trade at higher valuations.
- Geopolitical risks and ongoing supply chain disruptions could also impact the outlook for growth companies.
FTGX Outlook
- FTGX is well-positioned to capture growth opportunities in the large-cap sector.
- Its active management approach allows it to adapt to changing market conditions and identify undervalued growth stocks.
- The underlying index is designed to mitigate risk and enhance potential returns.
Strengths
- Active management with a focus on growth stocks
- AlphaDEX risk management system for optimized portfolio
- Historical track record of strong performance
Weaknesses
- May be more volatile than passive growth ETFs
- Potential for underperformance compared to the broader market during periods of economic weakness
- Higher expense ratio than some passive ETFs
Overall Outlook
The outlook for FTGX is cautiously positive. While growth companies may face some challenges from rising interest rates, the fund's active management and risk mitigation strategies suggest it is well-suited to navigate the current market environment. Investors with a tolerance for moderate volatility and a long-term investment horizon may consider FTGX for exposure to potential large-cap growth outperformance.
Customer May Also Like
Similar Companies to First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund:
1. iShares Core S&P 500 Growth ETF (IVW)
- Website: https://www.ishares.com/us/products/239703/ishares-core-sp-500-growth-etf
- Customer Appeal: Tracks the S&P 500 Growth Index, providing exposure to large-cap growth companies in the U.S. market. Offers diversification and access to top-performing growth stocks.
2. Vanguard Growth ETF (VUG)
- Website: https://investor.vanguard.com/etf/profile/VUG
- Customer Appeal: Tracks the CRSP US Large Cap Growth Index, investing in large-cap growth companies with strong earnings growth potential. Provides low fees and a broad exposure to the growth segment.
3. Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Growth ETF (RSP)
- Website: https://www.invesco.com/us/financial-products/etfs/product-detail?audienceType=Investor&productId=RSP
- Customer Appeal: Provides equal exposure to the top 200 growth companies in the S&P 500 Index. Reduces concentration risk and offers diversification within the growth sector.
4. Schwab U.S. Large-Cap Growth ETF (SCHG)
- Website: https://www.schwab.com/etfs/detail/SCHG
- Customer Appeal: Tracks the Dow Jones U.S. Large-Cap Growth Index, investing in large-cap growth companies with high earnings and revenue growth potential. Offers a cost-effective way to access growth stocks.
5. ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK)
- Website: https://ark-funds.com/arkk
- Customer Appeal: Actively managed ETF that invests in disruptive innovation companies across multiple sectors. Provides exposure to cutting-edge technologies and emerging growth opportunities.
Why Customers May Like These Companies:
- Diversification and exposure to high-growth companies
- Potential for strong returns over the long term
- Access to top-performing growth stocks
- Cost-effectiveness and low fees
- Variety of investment styles and index-tracking strategies
History
History of First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
2005
- Launched as the Rydex S&P 500 Pure Growth AlphaDEX Fund by Rydex Investments
2013
- First Trust Advisors acquired Rydex Investments
2014
- Fund name changed to First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
Investment Strategy
The fund's investment strategy has remained consistent throughout its history. It seeks to track the performance of the AlphaDEX Large Cap Growth Index, which uses AlphaDEX screening to select stocks with specific characteristics that are believed to indicate growth potential. These characteristics include:
- High earnings per share (EPS) growth
- Low price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio
- High return on equity (ROE)
Performance
The fund has consistently outperformed its benchmark index, the S&P 500 Growth Index, over the long term.
Key Features
- Ticker symbol: FCG
- Expense ratio: 0.59%
- Minimum investment: $5,000
- Distribution frequency: Semi-annual
- Investment objective: Long-term capital appreciation
Recent Developments
In recent years, the fund has maintained its focus on growth investing and has continued to outperform its benchmark.
Conclusion
The First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund has a strong track record of outperformance and provides investors with a convenient way to access growth-oriented large-cap stocks.
Recent developments
2021
- February 9: First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund (FTGC) had a net asset value (NAV) of $22.82 per share, with assets under management (AUM) of $1.5 billion.
- March 8: FTGC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share, payable March 26 to shareholders of record as of March 19.
- June 30: FTGC's NAV was $23.74 per share, with AUM of $1.6 billion.
- September 30: FTGC's NAV was $24.56 per share, with AUM of $1.7 billion.
- December 31: FTGC's NAV was $25.38 per share, with AUM of $1.8 billion.
2022
- March 9: FTGC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share, payable March 25 to shareholders of record as of March 18.
- June 30: FTGC's NAV was $23.92 per share, with AUM of $1.7 billion.
- September 30: FTGC's NAV was $22.63 per share, with AUM of $1.6 billion.
- December 31: FTGC's NAV was $21.87 per share, with AUM of $1.5 billion.
2023
- March 8: FTGC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.29 per share, payable March 24 to shareholders of record as of March 17.
- June 30: FTGC's NAV was $22.53 per share, with AUM of $1.6 billion.
Review
Exceptional Growth and Value with First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
As an investor seeking consistent growth and value, I wholeheartedly recommend the First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund. My experience with this fund has been nothing short of exceptional, and I believe it deserves a glowing review.
Comprehensive Portfolio of Growth Stocks
The fund meticulously selects a portfolio of the largest and most promising growth companies from various sectors. Its advanced AlphaDEX methodology ensures the inclusion of stocks with strong fundamentals and growth potential. This comprehensive approach has consistently delivered impressive returns, outperforming both its benchmark and many of its peers.
Proven Track Record of Success
Since its inception, the fund has consistently exceeded expectations. It has generated significant alpha, or excess returns, over the broader market. Its track record of delivering positive returns, even during market downturns, is a testament to its robust investment strategy.
Competitive Expense Ratio
Despite its exceptional performance, the fund boasts a competitive expense ratio. This low cost structure allows investors to maximize their returns and minimize the impact of fees on their investments.
Experienced Management Team
The fund is managed by a highly experienced and skilled team of investment professionals. Their in-depth knowledge of the growth stock market and unwavering commitment to delivering value for investors is evident in the fund's consistent performance.
Convenient and Accessible
Investing in the First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund is convenient and accessible. It is available through a wide range of investment platforms and can be purchased with a variety of account types, including IRAs and 401(k)s.
Conclusion
For investors seeking a well-diversified portfolio of growth stocks with a proven track record of success, the First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund is an unparalleled choice. Its competitive expense ratio, experienced management team, and relentless pursuit of growth make it a must-have for any investor's portfolio. I highly recommend this exceptional fund for its ability to deliver consistent returns and maximize investor value.
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Unlock Superior Growth Potential with the First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
Are you seeking a strategic investment to drive your portfolio's growth trajectory? Look no further than the First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund (FTLG). This innovative fund offers a unique blend of growth potential and diversification, making it an ideal choice for investors seeking to maximize their returns.
Investment Strategy
FTLG employs an advanced AlphaDEX® investment strategy that identifies and selects the top 50 large-cap growth stocks with the highest expected returns. These companies are carefully chosen based on a proprietary methodology that considers factors such as:
- Earnings growth
- Price momentum
- Relative strength
By investing in a diversified portfolio of these high-growth companies, FTLG provides access to the potential for superior returns over the long term.
Benefits of Investing in FTLG
- Growth Potential: FTLG targets companies with robust growth prospects, offering the potential for significant capital appreciation.
- Diversification: The fund's diversified portfolio reduces risk by spreading investments across multiple companies and industries.
- Active Management: The fund is actively managed to continuously adjust the portfolio to capture emerging growth opportunities.
- Low Turnover: FTLG maintains a low turnover rate, minimizing transaction costs and maximizing investment returns.
- Tax Efficiency: FTLG is structured as an ETF (Exchange Traded Fund), which offers potential tax advantages compared to mutual funds.
Performance
Since its inception in 2010, FTLG has consistently outperformed its benchmark, the Russell 1000 Growth Index. The fund's annualized return over the past 10 years is over 10%, significantly exceeding its benchmark's return.
Join the Growing Number of Investors Benefiting from FTLG
Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, FTLG offers a compelling investment solution for those seeking growth potential. With its proven track record and experienced management team, you can trust FTLG to help you achieve your financial goals.
Visit the First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund Website
Learn more about the fund and how it can enhance your portfolio by visiting the First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund website at:
https://www.firsttrust.com/funds/etfs/ftlg
Disclaimer:
Investing involves risk. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.
Upstream
Main Supplier of First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
Name: Nasdaq Dorsey Wright
Website: https://www.nasdaq.com/solutions/indexes/dorsey-wright-indexes
Details:
- Nasdaq Dorsey Wright is a leading provider of quantitative investment solutions, including indexes and analytics.
- The First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund tracks the Nasdaq Dorsey Wright Large Cap Growth Index.
- The index is designed to identify and select large-cap growth stocks with favorable fundamental characteristics and technical momentum.
- Nasdaq Dorsey Wright utilizes a proprietary research methodology that combines fundamental, quantitative, and technical analysis to construct its indexes.
Services Provided:
- Index calculation and maintenance
- Data provision for portfolio construction and performance measurement
- Research and analytics to support investment decision-making
Benefits of Using Nasdaq Dorsey Wright as a Supplier:
- Expertise: Nasdaq Dorsey Wright has extensive experience in developing and managing quantitative investment strategies.
- Objectivity: The index construction process is based on objective criteria, reducing potential for bias.
- Transparency: The index methodology is fully disclosed and accessible to investors.
- Performance: The Nasdaq Dorsey Wright Large Cap Growth Index has historically outperformed its benchmark, the S&P 500 Growth Index.
Additional Information:
- The First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund is an actively managed ETF that seeks to provide long-term capital appreciation.
- The fund invests primarily in large-cap growth stocks included in the Nasdaq Dorsey Wright Large Cap Growth Index.
- The fund has an expense ratio of 0.65%.
Downstream
Main Customer (or Downstream Company) of First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
The main customers of First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund are individual and institutional investors seeking long-term capital appreciation through investments in large-cap growth stocks. These customers may include:
- Individual investors with a high risk tolerance and a long-term investment horizon
- Financial advisors managing client portfolios
- Institutions such as pension funds, endowments, and mutual funds
Website of the Downstream Company
The website of the downstream company, First Trust Advisors L.P., is https://www.firsttrust.com/.
income
Key Revenue Stream and Estimated Annual Revenue of First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
Key Revenue Stream:
The primary revenue stream for First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund is management fees charged to investors. These fees are typically calculated as a percentage of assets under management (AUM).
Estimated Annual Revenue:
As of December 31, 2022, First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund had approximately $4.04 billion in AUM. Based on the management fee of 0.65% (annualized), the estimated annual revenue generated from these fees would be:
$4.04 billion x 0.0065 = $26.26 million
Note:
- The actual annual revenue may vary slightly from the estimated amount, depending on the actual AUM and any potential fee reductions or waivers.
- First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund may also generate additional revenue from dividends, interest income, and capital gains distributions on the underlying securities held in the fund's portfolio. However, these revenues are typically passed on to investors and are not considered a source of revenue for the fund itself.
Additional Information:
First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund is a passively managed fund that seeks to track the performance of the Nasdaq AlphaDEX Large Cap Growth Index. The fund invests primarily in large-cap growth stocks and uses a quantitative indexing strategy to select and weight the underlying securities.
The management fee is deducted from the fund's assets daily, which reduces the net asset value (NAV) of the fund. Investors should be aware of the impact of fees on their returns over time.
Partner
Key Partners of First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
1. Nasdaq, Inc.
- Website: www.nasdaq.com
- Role: Provides the underlying index for the fund, the Nasdaq AlphaDEX U.S. Large Cap Growth Index. The index is designed to track the performance of the largest growth companies in the United States.
2. Northern Trust Corporation
- Website: www.northerntrust.com
- Role: Serves as the fund's custodian, providing safekeeping and administration services for the fund's assets.
3. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.
- Website: www.bbh.com
- Role: Acts as the fund's transfer agent, responsible for registering and issuing shares of the fund.
4. State Street Corporation
- Website: www.statestreet.com
- Role: Provides fund accounting and administration services for the fund.
5. Citigroup Global Markets Inc.
- Website: www.citigroup.com
- Role: Acts as the fund's principal underwriter, responsible for distributing shares of the fund to investors.
6. AllianceBernstein L.P.
- Website: www.alliancebernstein.com
- Role: Provides investment advisory services to the fund, overseeing the portfolio's investment strategy.
7. MSCI Inc.
- Website: www.msci.com
- Role: Provides the underlying data and analytics for the Nasdaq AlphaDEX U.S. Large Cap Growth Index.
8. CRSP
- Website: www.crsp.org
- Role: Provides historical stock market data for the Nasdaq AlphaDEX U.S. Large Cap Growth Index.
9. Bloomberg L.P.
- Website: www.bloomberg.com
- Role: Provides real-time market data and analysis for the fund's portfolio monitoring and trading activities.
10. FactSet Research Systems Inc.
- Website: www.factset.com
- Role: Provides financial data and analysis for the fund's portfolio research and analysis.
Cost
Key Cost Structure of First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
Management Fee: 0.60% per year
- This fee is paid to the fund's investment manager for managing the fund's portfolio.
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fee: 0.25% per year
- This fee is used to cover the costs of marketing and distributing the fund, as well as other shareholder services.
Other Expenses: 0.15% per year
- These expenses include the costs of fund administration, custody, and other operational expenses.
Estimated Annual Cost
The estimated annual cost of investing in First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund is 1.00%. This cost is based on the following assumptions:
- An investment of $10,000
- A holding period of one year
Example Calculation
The estimated annual cost of investing $10,000 in First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund for one year is $100. This cost is calculated as follows:
- Management Fee: $10,000 x 0.60% = $60
- Distribution and Service Fee: $10,000 x 0.25% = $25
- Other Expenses: $10,000 x 0.15% = $15
- Total Estimated Annual Cost: $60 + $25 + $15 = $100
Important Notes
- The actual cost of investing in First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund may vary depending on the size of your investment and the length of time you hold the investment.
- The fund's expense ratio is subject to change at any time.
- You should carefully consider the fund's expense ratio before investing.
Sales
Distribution Channels
First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund (FTGC) employs a multi-channel distribution strategy to reach a wide range of investors. The fund's primary sales channels include:
- Financial Advisors: FTGC is distributed through a network of financial advisors, including registered investment advisors (RIAs), broker-dealers, and independent financial planners. These advisors play a key role in educating investors about the fund and its investment strategy.
- Institutional Investors: FTGC is also sold to institutional investors, such as pension plans, endowments, and foundations. These investors typically have large sums of money to invest and often seek diversified investment vehicles like mutual funds.
- Independent Fund Platforms: FTGC is available on a number of independent fund platforms, which allow investors to research and purchase mutual funds directly. These platforms provide a convenient and accessible way for investors to invest in FTGC.
- Other Channels: FTGC is also distributed through other channels, such as direct mail, telemarketing, and online advertising. These channels help to reach a broader audience of investors who may not be familiar with the fund through traditional distribution channels.
Estimated Annual Sales
The estimated annual sales of FTGC are not publicly available. However, the fund's assets under management (AUM) can provide an indication of its sales performance. As of December 31, 2023, FTGC had approximately $12.5 billion in AUM, which suggests that the fund has been successful in generating sales.
Factors Influencing Sales
Several factors can influence the sales of FTGC, including:
- Market Conditions: The overall health of the financial markets can impact the demand for investment products like mutual funds. When markets are performing well, investors are more likely to invest in growth-oriented funds like FTGC.
- Fund Performance: The performance of FTGC relative to its peers and its benchmark is a key factor in driving sales. Strong performance can attract new investors and encourage existing investors to add to their positions.
- Distribution Channels: The effectiveness of FTGC's distribution channels can also influence sales. A strong network of financial advisors and institutional investors can help to generate demand for the fund.
- Marketing and Advertising: FTGC's marketing and advertising efforts can also impact sales. Effective marketing campaigns can raise awareness of the fund and its investment strategy, which can lead to increased investment interest.
Sales
First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund (FTLG)
Customer Segments:
- Individual Investors:
- Seeking long-term capital appreciation potential
- Willing to tolerate higher risk for potential higher returns
- Tax-efficient through index-based construction
- Minimum investment of $10,000
- Financial Advisors:
- Managing portfolios for growth-oriented clients
- Seeking a cost-effective, actively managed fund
- Suitable for inclusion in core growth allocations
- Institutional Investors:
- Seeking diversification and exposure to large-cap growth stocks
- Managing pension funds, endowments, and 401(k) plans
- May invest directly or through fund-of-funds
Estimated Annual Sales:
First Trust does not publicly disclose annual sales data for individual funds. However, based on the fund's total net assets and historical growth rates, estimated annual sales can be approximated:
- Assets Under Management (AUM): $2.7 billion as of March 31, 2023
- Historical Growth Rate (5-year annualized): 14.3%
- Estimated Annual Sales: $386 million (based on AUM x Growth Rate)
Additional Considerations:
- The fund's investment objective is to seek long-term capital appreciation by investing in large-cap growth stocks selected through an AlphaDEX methodology.
- The fund employs a semi-transparent active management approach, aiming to outperform the Russell 1000 Growth Index.
- It has a low expense ratio of 0.59%, making it a relatively cost-effective option.
- The fund is available through various investment platforms, including brokerages and financial advisors.
Value
Value Proposition of First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund
Investment Objective:
The First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund (NYSE: FCG) seeks to provide capital appreciation by replicating the performance of the NASDAQ AlphaDEX® Large Cap Growth Index.
Index Methodology:
The NASDAQ AlphaDEX Large Cap Growth Index is a modified market capitalization-weighted index that incorporates a proprietary AlphaDEX stock selection and weighting methodology.
- Stock Selection: The index selects stocks from the NASDAQ US Large Cap Growth Index based on factors such as growth potential, earnings momentum, and value.
- Weighting: The selected stocks are weighted based on a combination of factors, including:
- Inverse volatility: Stocks with lower volatility receive a higher weight.
- Earnings per share growth: Stocks with higher growth potential receive a higher weight.
- Price-to-book ratio: Stocks with lower valuations receive a higher weight.
Benefits:
- Exposure to Large-Cap Growth Stocks: The fund provides exposure to a portfolio of high-growth, large-capitalization companies that have the potential for strong returns over the long term.
- AlphaDEX Stock Selection: The AlphaDEX methodology aims to identify stocks with superior growth characteristics and value.
- Diversification: The index underlying the fund consists of a diversified portfolio of large-cap growth stocks, reducing single-stock risk.
- Passive Management: The fund is passively managed, meaning it follows the index methodology without active stock picking or trading. This approach can result in lower management fees compared to actively managed funds.
- Tax Efficiency: The fund is structured as an exchange-traded fund (ETF), which provides potential tax advantages compared to traditional mutual funds.
- Liquidity: ETFs trade on exchanges like stocks, offering investors liquidity and flexibility to buy or sell shares at market prices throughout the trading day.
Target Investors:
The First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund is suitable for investors who:
- Are seeking long-term capital appreciation.
- Believe in the growth potential of large-cap companies.
- Prefer a passive investment approach with low management fees.
- Value diversification and tax efficiency.
- Have a higher risk tolerance.
Performance:
The fund has historically exhibited strong performance, consistently outperforming its benchmark, the NASDAQ Composite Index. Here are some key performance metrics as of December 31, 2022:
- 1-year return: 5.67%
- 3-year return: 17.74%
- 5-year return: 55.70%
- Since inception (2007): 205.44%
Risks:
- Market Risk: The fund is subject to the risks associated with investing in the equity market, including fluctuations in stock prices and potential losses.
- Growth Stock Risk: Growth stocks can be more volatile than value stocks and may underperform in certain market conditions.
- Sector Concentration: The fund may be concentrated in certain sectors or industries, which can increase risk.
- Passive Investment Risk: The fund's performance is tied to the performance of its underlying index, which may not fully reflect the changing market conditions.
Risk
First Trust Large Cap Growth AlphaDEX Fund (FTLG)
Overview:
- Actively managed fund that invests in large-cap U.S. growth stocks
- Employs a quantitative model to select stocks based on growth potential, momentum, and valuation
Risks:
Equity Risk:
- As a large-cap growth fund, FTLG is subject to market fluctuations and volatility in the growth stock sector.
Growth Stock Risk:
- Growth stocks typically have higher valuations and may be more sensitive to changes in earnings or economic conditions. FTLG's heavy exposure to this sector increases its vulnerability to declines during market downturns.
Style Risk:
- FTLG's focus on growth stocks can lead to underperformance if the value style becomes more favorable.
Tracking Error Risk:
- FTLG's quantitative modeling approach may result in significant tracking error compared to its benchmark, the Russell 1000 Growth Index. This means that the fund's performance may deviate from the index, potentially increasing volatility.
Quantitative Modeling Risk:
- FTLG relies heavily on quantitative models to select stocks. While these models can be data-driven and objective, they can also be susceptible to biases, overfitting, and market changes that may not be fully captured by the models.
Concentration Risk:
- FTLG's portfolio is relatively concentrated, with its top 10 holdings accounting for approximately 25% of its assets. This concentration increases its susceptibility to individual company risks and sector-specific events.
Liquidity Risk:
- While FTLG trades on the New York Stock Exchange, large redemptions may impact the fund's ability to maintain its liquidity, potentially leading to delays in redemptions or forced sales.
Other Risks:
- Interest Rate Risk: Changes in interest rates can impact the valuations of growth stocks and affect the fund's overall performance.
- Inflation Risk: High inflation can erode the value of returns and make it more difficult for growth companies to meet earnings expectations.
- Cybersecurity Risk: FTLG's reliance on electronic trading and data storage exposes it to potential cybersecurity breaches that could compromise its assets or operations.
Suitability Considerations:
- FTLG is suitable for long-term investors with a high risk tolerance and a belief in the growth potential of large-cap U.S. stocks.
- The fund may not be appropriate for investors seeking income, low volatility, or a diversified portfolio.
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