IWM Stock Recent News

The small-cap index records its biggest weekly gain since November. We highlight five top-ranked ETFs to tap the current momentum.

I am downgrading the Russell 2000 ETF to Neutral, as it currently trades at 193.50 amidst market volatility. Small-cap stocks were in a bear market but showed potential for a bounce, with IWM initially projected to rebound to 192.79 or higher. Despite the rally, I am less inclined to be long on small-caps and see significant risks, including a potential recession and massive federal debt.

Small cap stocks, or those companies with market capitalizations between $300 million and $2 billion, are a vital component of a diversified investment portfolio due to their growth potential and ability to enhance long-term returns.

America faces significant debt refinancing in 2025, with $8.2 trillion needing turnover, pressuring the Fed to cut rates to avoid recession. Leveraged ETFs and hedge funds are driving market volatility, with recent massive sell-offs due to margin calls and risk management pressures. Current market conditions are reminiscent of the 2018 trade war, with tariffs and strategic moves impacting valuations and investor sentiment.

I remain bearish on stocks but hold a leveraged ETF for the iShares Russell 2000, which is in a bear market, down 21% from its peak. Small-cap stocks have underperformed large-caps, especially during recessions, but technical analysis suggests potential short-term gains from gap-fills and Fibonacci retracements. I favor ETFs like IWM and Vanguard Small Cap Value Index for small-cap exposure, highlighting their low management fees and diversified holdings.

President Trump's tariffs are not negotiating tactics, but a protectionist move aimed at reversing globalization and boosting U.S. manufacturing, causing market selloffs. The tariffs will harm U.S. consumers and businesses, raising prices and potentially leading to a recession, with an average household impact of $3,800 annually. Big Tech stocks have been hit the hardest by the tariff threat, with the Nasdaq down nearly 16% and the Magnificent 7 down over 20%.

Growth stocks can offer investors an exciting ride, but that ride can be wild (and scary) at times. Younger, faster-growing companies tend to produce higher investment returns but are often riskier.

The S&P 500 has been under pressure due to trade tensions. These ETFs look trade-proof.

The iShares Russell 2000 Index (IWM) has suffered a big reversal after surging to a record high earlier this year. The fund, which tracks the top small cap companies in the US, retreated to a low of $200, down by almost 20% from its all-time high.

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) remain a powerful tool for investors, offering diversification, low costs, and flexibility.