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  5. ZWU: I have money to invest in a registered account and do not need the funds for at least 5-10 years. [BMO Covered Call Utilities ETF]
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Investment Q&A

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Q: I have money to invest in a registered account and do not need the funds for at least 5-10 years. I was planning to buy a GIC, but the rates for 1 to 5 year terms are only in the 3% range. Instead, I am thinking of buying ZWU with a 7% return, realizing that there is no guarantee on the ETF price, but the rate of return is significantly higher than the GIC. My understanding is that the utitilies sector is quite stable and the price of this ETF does not tend to move much.

Do you see this as a good strategy to get a higher return with relatively low risk to the erosion of my investment value, given the long time frame?

Also, what would be an acceptable price to purchase ZWU?
Asked by Cathy on June 04, 2025
5i Research Answer:

It is a yes and no answer. For an investor seeking income, we would be comfortable with ZWU. Generally, utilities are quite stable in most market environments. The exception is when interest rates spike higher (as in 2022). Losses can still occur in the sector. If an investor wants equity exposure, then utilities as a sector is typically one of the safest, along with consumer staples and health care. BUT..............in no way would we equate such an investment with a fully-guaranteed GIC. There is a big difference, and investors need to understand this. A GIC is never going to decline, and a ETF, even in utilities, can, sometimes sharply. So while we cannot get personal, looking at a 5 to 10 year time frame we would still be quite comfortable with ZWU overall. $10.85 we think would work as a price. 

Authors of this answer, directors, partners and/or officers of 5i Research and/or affiliated companies have a financial or other interest in ZWU.