Exchange-traded funds offer a convenient way to invest in sectors or niches that interest you. If you're looking for significant dividend payers and also want to diversify your portfolio internationally, the iShares Dow Jones International Select Dividend ETF
The basics
ETFs often sport lower expense ratios than their mutual fund cousins. The iShares ETF's expense ratio -- its annual fee -- is a relatively low 0.50%.
This ETF has performed reasonably well in its short life, beating the S&P 500, on average, over the past three years. As with most investments, of course, we can't expect outstanding performances in every quarter or year. Investors with conviction need to wait for their holdings to deliver.
What's in it?
Plenty of international dividend payers had strong performances over the past year. Western Gas Partners L.P.
Other companies didn't do as well last year, but could see their fortunes change in the coming years. Telefonica
Financial services company Principal Financial Group
The big picture
A well-chosen ETF can grant you instant diversification across any industry or group of companies -- and make investing in and profiting from it that much easier. Learn about the 5 ETFs That Could Soar in 2012. And if you're looking for some great investments beyond ETFs, consider these 12 Dividend Stocks for 2012.