JPMorgan ETFs offer safety for investors amid market volatility
- Jon Maier oversees the JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF and the JPMorgan Ultra-Short Income ETF, which rank as the largest in their category globally.
- During recent volatility, the equity ETF saw a decline, but it offers income opportunities when market volatility rises.
- These ETFs demonstrate how investors can maintain a defensive stance while staying engaged in the market.
In the financial landscape, risk-averse investors are seeking defensive strategies amidst fluctuating market conditions. Jon Maier, the Chief ETF Strategist at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, has highlighted two key funds that cater to this demographic: the JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF (JEPI) and the JPMorgan Ultra-Short Income ETF (JPST). These funds hold the first and third positions globally in terms of size within their categories, according to VettaFi. With the VIX index, a measure of market volatility, fluctuating, JePI offers opportunities for increased income as volatility rises while simultaneously allowing for potential upside in the underlying portfolio during periods of reduced volatility. As of late April, JEPI had experienced a 3% decline amidst market turbulence, finishing the month down about 4% for the year, only slightly better than the S&P 500’s almost 5% drop. Its major holdings include recognized corporations such as Mastercard, Visa, and Progressive. On the other hand, the JPMorgan Ultra-Short Income Fund focuses on fixed income investments rather than equities, and it has remained relatively stable in 2025. This fund acts as a stabilizing force in investor portfolios, providing protection for those looking to safeguard their principal. Through these funds, investors can maintain market exposure while adhering to defensive investment strategies that seek to minimize risks.