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Stock Analysis & ValuationEaton Vance Short Duration Diversified Income Fund (EVG)

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$11.00
Sector Valuation Confidence Level
High
Valuation methodValue, $Upside, %
Artificial intelligence (AI)82.29648
Intrinsic value (DCF)5.22-53
Graham-Dodd Method5.26-52
Graham Formula17.9163

Strategic Investment Analysis

Company Overview

Eaton Vance Short Duration Diversified Income Fund (EVG) is a closed-end fixed income mutual fund managed by Eaton Vance Management, focusing on short-duration, diversified income strategies. The fund primarily invests in senior secured floating-rate loans, foreign currency-denominated bank deposits, foreign government and corporate debt, and mortgage-backed securities. With an average duration of 1.76 years and a credit quality of at least BBB-, EVG aims to provide stable income while mitigating interest rate risk. The fund benchmarks its performance against the S&P/LSTA Leveraged Loan Index, reflecting its emphasis on leveraged loans. Operating in the Financial Services sector under Asset Management - Income, EVG caters to investors seeking lower volatility and steady returns in a rising rate environment. Its diversified sector exposure and disciplined credit selection enhance its appeal in income-focused portfolios.

Investment Summary

EVG presents an attractive option for income-seeking investors due to its short-duration strategy, which reduces sensitivity to interest rate fluctuations. The fund's diversified portfolio, including floating-rate loans and high-quality debt, offers resilience in volatile markets. However, its reliance on leveraged loans and foreign debt introduces credit and currency risks. With a solid dividend yield (~5.6% based on the latest dividend) and a strong net income of $21.9M, EVG is well-positioned for conservative fixed-income allocations. The absence of leverage (zero total debt) further strengthens its risk profile. Investors should monitor credit spreads and global economic conditions, as these could impact performance.

Competitive Analysis

EVG's competitive advantage lies in its short-duration focus, which differentiates it from longer-duration fixed-income funds. By maintaining an average duration of 1.76 years, the fund is less exposed to rising interest rates, appealing to risk-averse investors. Its diversified holdings across floating-rate loans, foreign debt, and mortgage-backed securities provide sector and geographic diversification, reducing concentration risk. However, the fund's niche focus on short-duration instruments may limit upside in declining rate environments. Compared to peers, EVG's credit quality (BBB- or better) is conservative, but its reliance on leveraged loans could expose it to higher default risks during economic downturns. The fund's benchmark alignment with the S&P/LSTA Leveraged Loan Index underscores its leveraged loan emphasis, which may underperform if credit markets weaken. Eaton Vance's active management adds value through selective credit picks, but passive alternatives may offer lower fees.

Major Competitors

  • PIMCO Dynamic Income Fund (PIMCO): PIMCO Dynamic Income Fund (PDI) is a larger, more diversified fixed-income fund with a broader mandate, including emerging market debt and non-agency mortgages. It offers higher yield potential but carries greater duration and credit risk compared to EVG. PDI's active management by PIMCO is a strength, but its expense ratio is higher.
  • BlackRock Limited Duration Income Trust (BLW): BLW focuses on short-duration bonds and leveraged loans, similar to EVG, but with a heavier emphasis on corporate credit. Its BlackRock affiliation provides scale and resources, but its portfolio is less diversified geographically. BLW's yield is competitive, but its credit risk profile is slightly higher.
  • Invesco Senior Income Trust (VVR): VVR specializes in senior secured loans, overlapping with EVG's floating-rate loan exposure. It offers high current income but has higher leverage and less diversification. VVR's performance is more volatile, making EVG a more stable alternative for conservative investors.
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