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- Upturn Summary
- Fund Details
Upturn AI Summary
PGIM Laddered Nasdaq-100 Buffer 12 ETF(PBQQ)
Advisory History & Simulated Performance *
*as per simulation (see disclosures)- ALL
- 1Y
- 1M
- 1W
- BUY Advisory
- SELL Advisory (Profit)
- SELL Advisory (Loss)
- Profit
- Loss
- PASS (Skip)
Stock price based on last close Advisory Performance History (Simulated)
Upturn Advisory & Investor View for PBQQ
10/28/2026: PBQQ (2-star) is a SELL. SELL for 4 days. Simulated Profits (-0.50%). Updated daily EoD!
PBQQ is a defined-outcome ETF that tracks the Nasdaq-100 Index while providing a 12% downside buffer and a capped upside. By using a laddered option strategy, it aims to reduce entry-point risk, making it a defensive tool for tech-heavy portfolios. Key strengths include its institutional management by PGIM and its ability to mitigate volatility during market turbulence. Investors should remain aware that the upside cap limits performance in bull markets and that the buffer does not protect against extreme market crashes. It is best suited for long-term investors seeking tech growth with a built-in protective floor.
How to Read the Upturn Advisory
The Upturn Star Rating and the current BUY, SELL, or PASS advisory are generated by Upturn’s AI advisory engine based on proprietary signal analysis, price behavior, advisory history, and historical signal performance.
ETF holdings, costs, diversification, valuation, risks, and market conditions provide supporting context about the fund.
Investor Fit
| Investor style | Fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Growth investor | Mixed fit | The upside cap limits the full growth potential of the Nasdaq-100 during bull markets. |
| Momentum investor | Weak fit | The capped structure is inherently contrary to pure momentum strategies. |
| Value investor | Mixed fit | It provides a controlled risk profile that appeals to value-oriented investors skeptical of tech valuations. |
| Dividend/Income investor | Weak fit | The fund is designed for price outcome, not dividend yield generation. |
| Low-risk investor | Strong fit while signal remains positive | The 12% downside buffer offers a significant cushion for investors worried about market volatility. |
Investor Profile
Ideal Investor Profile
The ideal investor is a risk-conscious participant who wants Nasdaq-100 exposure but is uncomfortable with the full magnitude of potential market drawdowns.
Suitability
Best for long-term investors utilizing a 'core-satellite' approach to manage portfolio risk.
Risk Profile
| Risk factor | Level | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Volatility | Medium / high | Option pricing is highly dependent on market volatility. |
| Market risk | Medium | The fund is still exposed to losses exceeding the 12% buffer. |
| Concentration | High | The fund is concentrated solely on the performance of the Nasdaq-100. |
| Tracking/expense | Low | The strategy is designed to follow a specific outcome rather than track the index perfectly. |
| Liquidity | Medium | Options-based ETFs can experience wider spreads during market stress. |
| Business/sector quality | Medium | Performance is entirely dependent on the tech-heavy Nasdaq-100 constituents. |
Risk Analysis
Volatility
PBQQ is engineered to manage volatility, though the underlying index remains highly volatile.
Market Risk
The fund is susceptible to systematic market risk and the specific risks of the Nasdaq-100 components.
What the ETF Owns
| Exposure Type | Exposure | Weight (%) | Retail Investor Read |
|---|---|---|---|
| Derivatives | Nasdaq-100 Index Options (Long/Short combinations for buffer/cap) | 95 | These derivatives provide the mechanics to cap upside and buffer downside against the Nasdaq-100. |
| Cash/collateral | Cash and Cash Equivalents | 5 | Cash is held to provide liquidity and collateral for the fund's option positions. |
Price Behavior
Strong Uptrend
The stock has maintained a strong upward price trend across the last three quarters.
Very Smooth
The stock has followed a highly orderly price path with minimal short-term disruption.
Analysis of Past Performance
Type ETF | Historic Profit 15.57% | Avg. Invested days 59 | Today’s Advisory SELL |
Upturn Advisory Rating  | Upturn Advisory Performance  3.0 | ETF Returns Performance  3.0 |
| Profits based on simulation | Last Close 10/28/2026 |
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