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Unlocking the Hidden Potential

Investing in Water for Profit and Impact

By Alex Greyson Published 3 years ago 3 min read
Unlocking the Hidden Potential
Photo by Marcin Jozwiak on Unsplash

When we think of commodity investing, our minds often wander to the flashy and controversial resources that dominate the headlines - crude oil, natural gas, gold, or wheat. These commodities have captivated investors for years, but there's one vital resource that often flies under the radar: water.

Water, covering most of the globe and constituting a significant portion of our bodies, is an invaluable asset. Yet, it remains elusive when it comes to investment opportunities. Apart from stockpiling water bottles in preparation for emergencies or delving into water futures contracts, the average investor finds limited avenues for water investment.

However, there is a hidden gem in the Canadian market that provides exposure to the water industry through a unique exchange-traded fund (ETF). Today, we explore the compelling case for water investment and take a closer look at this intriguing ETF.

Why should you consider investing in water? The answer lies in the fundamental supply-demand dynamic. As the global population continues to surge and agricultural needs rise, the demand for water intensifies. Simultaneously, climate change and pollution exert mounting pressure on our finite supply. This simple yet powerful imbalance sets the stage for water-related investments to appreciate over time.

But there's more. Water stocks, particularly those in the utility sector, offer stability during turbulent times. Unlike many other industries, water utilities display lower volatility during recessions. After all, water is an essential and inelastic commodity that remains in demand, regardless of economic conditions. Investors can thus view these stocks as a potential harbor in the storm during economic downturns.

Additionally, the dire need for global water infrastructure improvement and expansion presents a lucrative market for companies operating in this space. Such infrastructure spending acts as a shield against inflation; as prices rise, so does the value of the tangible assets these companies hold or produce. For investors, this provides a valuable layer of protection against the eroding effects of inflation.

While the case for water investment is strong, navigating this intricate landscape can be daunting. That's where water ETFs come into play.

These innovative investment vehicles offer a diversified portfolio of water stocks, mitigating company-specific risks and providing a broader exposure to the entire water supply chain. They serve as convenient, transparent, and accessible instruments for harnessing the potential of this essential resource.

One water ETF that stands out from the crowd is the iShares Global Water Index ETF (TSX:CWW). With shares trading around $50 at the time of writing, this ETF tracks the S&P Global Water Index, which comprises 50 leading global water industry companies. These companies span utilities, infrastructure, equipment, and materials sectors, creating a comprehensive and diverse investment opportunity.

Investors in CWW can enjoy a modest 12-month trailing dividend yield of 1.47%, adding an attractive income stream to their portfolios. With an expense ratio of 0.66%, this ETF provides a cost-effective solution for investors seeking exposure to the water theme.

But don't just take our word for it! The Motley Fool, renowned for its expert stock picks, offers some exceptional Canadian dividend stock recommendations that pair seamlessly with a water-themed portfolio. By combining the stability of water utilities with the growth potential of carefully selected dividend stocks, investors can maximize their returns while diversifying their holdings.

Investing in water isn't merely an opportunity for financial gain. It's a chance to contribute to a greater cause. By supporting companies that are driving water infrastructure improvement and conservation efforts, investors can align their portfolios with their values and make a positive impact on the world.

As the global demand for water continues to rise, seizing the opportunity to invest in this vital resource could prove to be a game-changer. With water ETFs like iShares Global Water Index ETF (TSX:C

WW) simplifying the investment process, now is the time to dive into the deep waters of water investing. Don't miss out on the potential profits and the chance to be part of a solution that will shape the future.

Take the plunge and explore the untapped potential of water investment today.

AdvocacyNatureSustainability

About the Creator

Alex Greyson

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