Exchange-traded funds offer a convenient way to invest in sectors or niches that interest you. If you'd like to load up your portfolio with some global payers of hefty dividends, the WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend ETF
The basics
ETFs often sport lower expense ratios than their mutual fund cousins. The WisdomTree ETF's expense ratio -- its annual fee -- is a relatively low 0.48%. The fund is fairly small, too, so if you're thinking of buying, beware of occasionally large spreads between its bid and ask prices. Consider using a limit order if you want to buy in.
This ETF has performed adequately but unspectacularly so far, roughly keeping pace with the overall world markets. 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.
With a low turnover rate of 23%, this fund isn't frantically and frequently rejiggering its holdings, as many funds do.
What's in it?
Several dividend payers that the ETF owns had strong performances over the past year. Electric and natural gas utility DTE Energy
Other companies didn't do as well last year, but could see their fortunes change in the coming years. Telecom giant Telefonica
France Telecom
Australia-based natural-resource giant BHP Billiton
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.