Exchange-traded funds have hit the investing world by storm. But with hundreds of different ETFs to choose from, how can you make the best choice for your portfolio?
To help you answer that question, we asked some of our Motley Fool analysts to weigh in with their opinions about which ETFs they like right now. They also gave their views on some popular ETFs that might not be your best bet. Read on to see their ideas.
Amanda Kish, analyst, Champion Funds Quarterly
There are two keys to picking good ETFs: price and diversification. Since you're not paying for manager expertise, you want the cheapest fund you can find to get the job done. Likewise, broad-based funds that invest in fairly wide sections of the market are usually appropriate for most investors. Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF
On the other hand, leveraged ETFs carry high costs and big risk. One fund that serves as a good example of everything that is wrong with these investments is the Direxion Daily Developed Market Bull 3X Shares
John Rosevear, Motley Fool contributor
After some recent weakness, gold prices are heading back toward all-time highs. With the debt standoff in the U.S. and several eurozone governments in trouble, gold could skyrocket -- or, if these fears come to naught, come crashing down with a thud like one of those Acme anvils that used to bedevil Wile E. Coyote.
ETFs -- specifically, SPDR Gold Shares
So which would I pick? Neither. There's just too much downside risk to betting the wrong way. Gold's a gamble rather than an investment right now, and I plan to stay on the sidelines munching popcorn as the drama unfolds.
Speaking of popcorn, I'd recommend another commodity ETF that doesn't get a whole lot of attention -- the Teucrium Corn ETF
Selena Maranjian, Motley Fool contributor
It's a little hard to believe, but fast-growing tech companies are trading at bargain prices these days despite their exciting prospects. Although you can cherry-pick among tech leaders, the easier way to invest in a broad basket of tech stocks is through a sector ETF.
The Technology Select Sector SPDR
Be choosy with your technology funds, though. The B2B Internet HOLDRs
Learn more
Get more information about great ETFs from The Motley Fool's free special report, "3 ETFs Set to Soar During the Recovery." With selections including technology and commodity ETFs, you won't want to miss it.