HYDB: Higher Expense Ratio For More Volatility Unappealing Amid Uncertain Market Recovery

The iShares High Yield Systematic Bond ETF underperformed YTD despite a higher energy allocation and value tilt versus USHY. HYDB's higher expense ratio (0.35% vs. 0.08% for USHY) is questionable given higher volatility and the worse performance. The value tilt in the index maybe isn't adding much. Credit spreads had already normalized, limiting HYDB's capital appreciation potential even if geopolitical risks subside as related to general macro considerations.