ProShares Russell 2000 Dividend Growers ETF Price & Performance (SMDV)

The Russell 2000 index, a benchmark for small-cap stocks, has dropped 10% from its late-2024 high. Investor optimism tied to pro-business policies has faded amid persistent high interest rates and economic uncertainty. Corporate executives' sentiment also remains bleak, as reflected in earnings call analyses.1

ProShares UltraPro QQQ saw a price surge, opening at $65.06, up from the previous close of $62.18. Meanwhile, ProShares S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats ETF (NOBL) showed modest growth over the past year, with a 1.45% return. These trends highlight divergent paths for dividend-focused ETFs.23

The ProShares Russell 2000 Dividend Growers ETF (SMDV) is under pressure as small-cap stocks face headwinds. With a 0.60% price dip to $66.58 and weak near- and mid-term ratings, the ETF reflects broader struggles in the small-cap sector due to economic and policy uncertainties.45