By Daniela Pylypczak
After several weeks of dismal trading, the markets finally managed to climb back into positive territory, despite increased levels of volatility. Investors anxiously awaited Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke's testimony to Capitol Hill last week, only to be disappointed by the lack of a definite response on the issue of future quantitative easing measures.
Bernanke indicated that the Fed is "still working" on whether they will take steps to boost economic growth. While the U.S. contemplates the possibility of future stimulus measures, the eurozone will place its focus on Spain this coming week as officials find the best way to support the recently downgraded country. As eurozone drama takes center stage once again, there will be plenty of headlines for investors to keep a close eye on.
MSCI Italy Index Fund (EWI)
Why EWI Will Be In Focus: This fund seeks to replicate the performance of the Italian
equity market and is home to over $150 million in total assets. In terms of sector allocation, the fund is primarily invested in energy and financial services stocks, which together make up more than half of total assets. Italy, along with other plagued eurozone members, has struggled in recent years: EWI has lost a staggering 64.8% over the trailing five year period. Its focus this week will come on Monday when Italy's GDP will be reported, giving a good outlook on the future of the country's economy.
SPDR S&P Retail ETF (XRT)
Why XRT Will Be In Focus: This fund offers exposure to the U.S. retail industry, a targeted sub-sector of the consumer discretionary space. Top holdings include online travel sites Expedia (EXPE) and TripAdvisor (TRIP), as well as book giant Barnes & Noble (BKS) and clothing manufacturer American Eagle Outfitters (AEO). Following the recent trend of U.S. retail sales, XRT has slid more than 4% in the past three months, as consumers spent less money in this corner of the consumer discretionary market. XRT will be important to watch this week as U.S. Retail Sales and Consumer Confidence are slated to be announced on Wednesday and Friday, respectively.
Euro Debt Fund (EU)
Why EU Will Be In Focus: This fund is the only ETF available on the market that provides a way for investors to gain pure play and broad-based exposure to the European debt markets. EU's portfolio consists of nearly 40 euro-denominated bonds, with heavier allocations towards the relatively "safer" eurozone countries of Germany and France. Its focus this week will come as Germany's and the eurozone's Consumer Price Indexes are announced on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively. Given the recent headlines surrounding the region's ongoing debt drama, investors should keep a close eye on EU as it may exhibit higher levels of volatility this week.
Disclosure: Photo courtesy of Diliff. No positions at time of writing.
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