| Valuation method | Value, $ | Upside, % |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | 924.57 | 6420 |
| Intrinsic value (DCF) | n/a | |
| Graham-Dodd Method | n/a | |
| Graham Formula | n/a |
First Trust High Yield Opportunities 2027 Term Fund (NYSE: FTHY) is a diversified closed-end management investment company focused on delivering current income through high-yield fixed-income securities. Launched in June 2020 and headquartered in Wheaton, IL, FTHY operates within the asset management sector of the financial services industry. The fund primarily invests in below-investment-grade (high-yield) corporate bonds, targeting attractive risk-adjusted returns while maintaining a disciplined approach to credit selection. With a term structure set to mature in 2027, FTHY offers investors exposure to a managed portfolio of high-yield debt instruments, aiming to provide consistent income distributions. The fund's strategy is particularly relevant in today's market environment, where investors seek yield enhancement amid fluctuating interest rates and economic uncertainty. FTHY's closed-end structure allows for efficient capital deployment without the liquidity constraints of open-end funds, making it a compelling option for income-focused investors.
FTHY presents an attractive option for income-seeking investors, offering a high dividend yield of approximately 9.3% (based on a $1.525 annual dividend and recent share price). The fund's focus on high-yield corporate bonds provides potential for superior income generation compared to investment-grade alternatives, though this comes with higher credit risk. The term structure (maturing in 2027) provides a defined investment horizon, which may appeal to investors seeking duration certainty. However, the fund's performance is sensitive to credit spreads and default rates in the high-yield market. With $131 million in debt leverage, FTHY employs moderate leverage to enhance returns, which could amplify losses during market downturns. The fund's 0.64 beta suggests lower volatility than the broader market, but investors should carefully consider the credit quality of the underlying holdings.
FTHY competes in the crowded high-yield closed-end fund space, differentiating itself through its term structure and First Trust's active management approach. The 2027 term feature provides a unique selling point compared to perpetual closed-end funds, offering investors a defined maturity date when the portfolio will be liquidated. This structure may appeal to investors seeking duration certainty in a rising rate environment. First Trust's credit research capabilities and portfolio construction discipline provide potential advantages in security selection within the high-yield universe. The fund's moderate use of leverage (approximately 25% of total assets) positions it between more conservative and aggressive peers in terms of risk profile. FTHY's diversified portfolio approach helps mitigate single-issuer risk, though it remains exposed to systemic credit risks in the high-yield market. The fund's competitive positioning is strengthened by First Trust's established distribution network and brand recognition in the closed-end fund marketplace. However, its performance will ultimately depend on the manager's ability to navigate credit cycles and avoid significant defaults in the portfolio.