What Does Elevated Index Concentration Mean for Active U.S. Equity Managers?

July 18, 2024 | Catherine Hillier, Senior Research Analyst

Indexing has risen in popularity over the last decade, particularly for U.S. equity investors. The fees are lower and indexing is perceived as less risky, with investors primarily seeking beta exposure to the market. However, these indices have evolved against an ever-changing economic and financial market backdrop. As a result, several unintended structural issues have emerged, particularly related to concentration risk. Understanding this evolution and how it could alter the overall exposures within a broader portfolio is critical, as these indices are not static. Notably, the composition of some indices alongside the increase in passive capital has created headwinds for active managers and helps to explain recent performance challenges.

This newsletter examines the progression of passive management, how and why U.S. equity index concentration has increased in recent years, and the effects and risks investors need be aware of across the market capitalization spectrum.

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