When do "inverse" ETFs cover their shorts?

  • Thread starter Stephen Tashi
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In summary, exchange traded funds such as TZA and RWM aim to achieve inverse results of specific stock indexes by shorting stocks. However, they do not actually sell anything short. Instead, they use futures or swap contracts and cover their positions at the end of each trading day. This can make them risky investments.
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Stephen Tashi
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Exchange traded funds like TZA and RWM attempt to get results that are the "inverse" of certain stock indexes. I understand they do this by shorting stocks. When do they cover their shorts? -before the end of each trading day?
 
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Stephen Tashi said:
Exchange traded funds like TZA and RWM attempt to get results that are the "inverse" of certain stock indexes. I understand they do this by shorting stocks. When do they cover their shorts? -before the end of each trading day?
At the end of the day, and they actually do not sell anything short. They utilize futures or swap contracts and settle at the end of the day (which is a primary reason why they are such crappy investments)
 

FAQ: When do "inverse" ETFs cover their shorts?

1. When do "inverse" ETFs cover their shorts?

Inverse ETFs cover their shorts when the underlying index or asset that they are shorting decreases in value. This allows the ETF to profit from the decline in value and cover their short position.

2. What triggers the covering of shorts for inverse ETFs?

The covering of shorts for inverse ETFs is triggered by a decrease in the value of the underlying index or asset. This can be caused by market downturns, negative news, or other factors that cause the value to decline.

3. How do inverse ETFs cover their shorts?

Inverse ETFs typically cover their shorts by buying back the shares they borrowed and sold in order to create the short position. This is known as "closing out" the short position.

4. Do inverse ETFs always cover their shorts?

No, inverse ETFs do not always cover their shorts. If the underlying index or asset increases in value, the ETF may continue to hold the short position in the hopes of profiting from a future decline in value.

5. What are the risks of holding an inverse ETF with a short position?

The main risk of holding an inverse ETF with a short position is that if the underlying index or asset increases in value, the ETF will experience losses instead of gains. Additionally, inverse ETFs may have higher fees and expenses compared to traditional ETFs, which can eat into potential profits.

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