Invesco S&P Emerging Markets Low Volatility ETF Price & Performance (EELV)

Low-volatility ETFs, such as the iShares MSCI Minimum Volatility ETF, are outperforming the broader U.S. stock market in 2025. Year-to-date, USMV is up 4.9%, contrasting with a 1.5% market decline. Despite recent tariff-related market rallies, uncertainty surrounding their implementation continues to weigh on investor sentiment and economic outlook.12

Defensive ETFs, including the Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF (SPLV), are gaining attention as market volatility escalates. SPLV, which holds the 100 least volatile S&P 500 stocks, is outperforming the broader index, reflecting a shift by investors toward capital preservation amid economic uncertainty and policy concerns.34

Small business optimism in the U.S. dropped in February, with the NFIB Small Business Optimism Index falling to 100.7. Concerns over labor quality and inflation are driving uncertainty, while fewer business owners see current conditions as favorable for expansion. This sentiment could signal broader economic challenges ahead.52