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Upturn AI SWOT - About
First Trust Senior Loan Fund (FTSL)
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Upturn Advisory Summary
09/12/2025: FTSL (1-star) has a low Upturn Star Rating. Not recommended to BUY.
Upturn Star Rating
Not Recommended Performance
These Stocks/ETFs, based on Upturn Advisory, consistently fall short of market performance, signaling caution before investing.
Analysis of Past Performance
Type ETF | Historic Profit 19.63% | Avg. Invested days 177 | Today’s Advisory Consider higher Upturn Star rating |
Upturn Star Rating | Upturn Advisory Performance  5.0 | ETF Returns Performance  3.0 |
| Profits based on simulation | Last Close 09/12/2025 |
Key Highlights
Volume (30-day avg) - | Beta 0.24 | 52 Weeks Range 42.39 - 45.92 | Updated Date 06/29/2025 |
52 Weeks Range 42.39 - 45.92 | Updated Date 06/29/2025 |
Upturn AI SWOT
First Trust Senior Loan Fund
ETF Overview
Overview
The First Trust Senior Loan Fund (FTSL) is an actively managed ETF that seeks to provide current income. The fund invests primarily in senior loans, which are typically floating-rate debt instruments issued by companies with below-investment-grade credit ratings. This allocation offers potential inflation protection and higher yields compared to traditional fixed-income investments.
Reputation and Reliability
First Trust is a well-established ETF issuer with a solid reputation for providing innovative and diverse investment products.
Management Expertise
First Trust's management team possesses extensive experience in managing fixed-income investments, specifically in the senior loan market.
Investment Objective
Goal
Seeks to provide current income.
Investment Approach and Strategy
Strategy: Actively managed, targeting senior loans.
Composition Primarily invests in senior loans issued by companies with below-investment-grade credit ratings. The ETF may invest a portion of its assets in other fixed-income securities and derivatives.
Market Position
Market Share: Insufficient data to provide an accurate market share.
Total Net Assets (AUM): 363000000
Competitors
Key Competitors
- BKLN
- SRLN
- HYLN
- EVLN
- FLOT
Competitive Landscape
The senior loan ETF market is competitive, with several established players. FTSL's active management offers the potential for outperformance but also introduces manager risk. BKLN and SRLN are larger, passively managed ETFs with lower expense ratios. FTSL's smaller size and active approach may make it suitable for investors seeking a potentially higher return profile with greater risk, while passive ETFs may be preferred for lower costs and broader diversification.
Financial Performance
Historical Performance: Historical performance data not readily available in structured format for inclusion.
Benchmark Comparison: Benchmark comparison data not readily available in structured format for inclusion.
Expense Ratio: 0.9
Liquidity
Average Trading Volume
The ETF's average trading volume suggests moderate liquidity.
Bid-Ask Spread
The bid-ask spread is generally moderate, reflecting the ETF's liquidity.
Market Dynamics
Market Environment Factors
Economic growth, interest rate trends, and credit market conditions influence the performance of senior loans. A rising interest rate environment can be beneficial due to the floating-rate nature of the loans. Credit spreads also play a vital role.
Growth Trajectory
The growth trajectory depends on demand for senior loans and investors' risk appetite. The ETF's active management allows for adjustments to strategy and holdings based on market conditions.
Moat and Competitive Advantages
Competitive Edge
FTSL's competitive edge lies in its active management strategy, which allows the fund managers to selectively invest in senior loans they believe offer the best risk-adjusted returns. The fund's focus on income generation makes it attractive to income-seeking investors. The active management also allows for adjustments to the portfolio based on changes in the economic and credit environment. The active investment strategy can potentially provide higher returns compared to similar passive ETFs.
Risk Analysis
Volatility
The ETF's volatility is influenced by the credit quality of the underlying loans and market interest rate fluctuations.
Market Risk
Specific risks include credit risk associated with the borrowers, interest rate risk, and liquidity risk in the senior loan market.
Investor Profile
Ideal Investor Profile
Ideal for income-seeking investors who are comfortable with below-investment-grade credit risk and the potential for higher yields. Investors looking for inflation protection through floating-rate debt may also find this suitable.
Market Risk
Suitable for long-term investors seeking income and diversification, but not suitable for risk-averse investors or those with a short-term investment horizon.
Summary
The First Trust Senior Loan Fund (FTSL) is an actively managed ETF targeting current income through investments in senior loans. While offering potential inflation protection and higher yields, it carries credit and interest rate risks. Its active management sets it apart from passive competitors, but also introduces manager risk. FTSL is best suited for income-seeking investors comfortable with below-investment-grade credit and moderate volatility, looking for portfolio diversification.
Peer Comparison
Sources and Disclaimers
Data Sources:
- First Trust Website
- ETF.com
- Morningstar
Disclaimers:
The data provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Investment decisions should be based on individual circumstances and consultation with a qualified financial advisor.
AI Summarization is directionally correct and might not be accurate.
Summarized information shown could be a few years old and not current.
Fundamental Rating based on AI could be based on old data.
AI-generated summaries may have inaccuracies (hallucinations). Please verify the information before taking action.
About First Trust Senior Loan Fund
Exchange NASDAQ | Headquaters - | ||
IPO Launch date - | CEO - | ||
Sector - | Industry - | Full time employees - | Website |
Full time employees - | Website | ||
Under normal market conditions, the fund invests at least 80% of its net assets (including investment borrowings) in first lien senior floating rate bank loans ("Senior Loans"). The fund invests in Senior Loans made predominantly to businesses operating in North America, but may also invest in Senior Loans made to businesses operating outside of North America.
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