HYD: An Uncertain Rate Outlook Warrants Caution
VanEck High Yield Muni ETF offers a high tax-equivalent yield of ~7.38% for top-bracket investors, driven by high-yield, longer-maturity municipal bonds. HYD's attractive yield comes with significant interest-rate sensitivity, as its ~9.35-year modified duration exposes investors to considerable downside from rate increases. Rising inflation and energy prices, combined with a hawkish rate outlook, create a challenging environment for HYD's long duration, including considerable lower-rated muni exposure.