The short interest in the John Hancock Core Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:JHCR) experienced a notable decline of 29.1% in December 2023. As of December 31, short interest totaled 1,240 shares, down from 1,750 shares reported on December 15. With an average trading volume of 423 shares, the current days-to-cover ratio stands at 2.9 days. Presently, 0.2% of the ETF’s shares are sold short, indicating a shift in investor sentiment.
Institutional Investment Increases
In a related development, institutional trading activity surrounding the John Hancock Core Bond ETF has intensified. Notably, Advisory Services Network LLC significantly increased its stake in the ETF by 298.6% during the third quarter of 2023. According to the firm’s latest filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the hedge fund now owns 35,733 shares after acquiring an additional 26,768 shares during that period. The investment is valued at approximately $911,000, representing 6.27% of the ETF.
Market Performance Update
On the trading front, the John Hancock Core Bond ETF saw a slight decline of 0.2% on Monday, closing at $25.44. The trading volume for the day was limited to just 24 shares, compared to its average of 148 shares. Over the past year, the ETF has fluctuated between a low of $24.55 and a high of $25.90. The fund’s 50-day moving average is currently positioned at $25.52, while the 200-day moving average sits at $25.46.
The John Hancock Core Bond ETF, launched on December 18, 2024, primarily invests in investment-grade fixed income securities. The fund is actively managed with a focus on US investment-grade bonds, aiming to provide current income while prioritizing capital preservation and liquidity. As market dynamics evolve, the ETF continues to attract attention from both institutional and individual investors.
Overall, the decline in short interest and the increase in institutional stakes suggest a potentially positive outlook for the John Hancock Core Bond ETF as it navigates the current financial landscape.
