Samsung Asset Management Lists New KODEX 200 Covered Call Active ETF

Samsung Asset Management announced on July 14 that it has newly listed the "KODEX 200 Covered Call Active" Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), which seeks stable monthly distributions and excess returns by focusing on leading domestic industries and key companies, while deploying a flexible covered call option selling strategy.

This new product pays distributions in the middle of each month and is an evolved version that inherits the management expertise of the previously popular "KODEX 200 Target Weekly Covered Call." The newly listed KODEX 200 Covered Call Active is designed to pay distributions at the end of each month, utilizing the management approach of the existing product.

The most notable feature of this ETF is its higher weighting in the core leading sectors driving the Korean stock market compared to the benchmark index. Recently, the Korean stock market has shown a clear divergence, with specific leading stocks driving the market instead of broad-based index gains. Accordingly, this product strategically increases its exposure to key stocks in AI semiconductors and high-value-added materials, components, and equipment sectors. It is structured to maximize the benefits of an active strategy that flexibly diversifies portfolio holdings in line with market changes and technology trends.

The option management approach is also executed flexibly, taking comprehensive market conditions into account. In rising markets, the proportion of option selling is adjusted to maximize participation in stock price gains, while in bearish or sideways markets, the strategy focuses on securing stable option selling premiums to cushion declines, employing a dynamic covered call strategy.

It is also attractive from a tax efficiency perspective. Under current laws, domestic option premium income and capital gains from domestic stocks are tax-exempt. Only dividends from stocks are subject to a 15.4% tax, enabling efficient investing.

Ahyeon Song, manager at Samsung Asset Management, said, "The Korean stock market remains undervalued relative to corporate earnings strength," adding, "This ETF is suitable for investors who want to secure stable returns by utilizing high volatility, while also participating in potential future stock price momentum."

The record date for the first distribution of this ETF is set for July 31. Investors who purchase shares by July 29, two business days before the record date, will be eligible to receive the first distribution. Investment is available not only through personal pension accounts but also through retirement pension (DC and IRP) accounts.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.