First Trust NYSE Arca Biotechnology Index Fund Price & Performance (FBT)

The First Trust NYSE Arca Biotechnology Index Fund (FBT) leads biotech ETFs with a 14.10% annual gain, while others like VanEck Biotech ETF (BBH) and iShares Biotechnology ETF (IBB) posted slight declines. Biotech ETFs remain a popular choice for spreading investment risk across the volatile healthcare sector.1

China's ban on Illumina Inc.'s gene-sequencing machines, part of escalating trade tensions with the U.S., opens the door for Chinese competitors to gain market share. Illumina faces challenges exporting reagents, which could affect its revenue. Investors are advised to monitor the situation for potential market volatility.2

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s appointment as HHS Secretary has sparked fears of NIH funding cuts, potentially impacting healthcare research and stocks. Vaccine skepticism and proposed grant caps add uncertainty, with academic-focused companies likely to feel the greatest effects. Investors may see shifts in healthcare ETF performance.3