FTSE Russell, the global index and data provider, announced the licensing of the Russell 2000® Index to Samsung Asset Management Company Limited as the basis of the first ETF in Korea to allow investors to gain exposure to the US small cap segment. The Samsung KODEX US Russell 2000 ETF (H) listed on Korea Exchange (KRX) today.
FTSE Russell’s broad range of US indexes allows market participants to track market performance by a variety of metrics, including company size and investment style. The flagship Russell 2000 Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased small cap barometer. It is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index, which represents 98% of US equity market capitalization.
Evan Ong, Managing Director, Asia ETP and listed derivatives strategy and business development, FTSE Russell, said:
We are delighted to work with Samsung to support investor demand to capture investment opportunities in the US. Since launching our research-based Russell US Indexes in 1984, we continue to create products that give investors an edge in the complex investment universe.
Gee Lee, Head of Business Development, Korea, FTSE Russell, commented:
It is encouraging to continue collaborating with Samsung to enable new product offerings for their clients in Korea. FTSE Russell index expertise is recognized by institutional and retail investors globally and regionally.
Kyoungseok Mun, director of passive management division at Samsung Asset Management, concluded:
From an asset allocation standpoint, US stocks are a key asset class for investors. The KODEX Russell 2000 ETF(H) will help strengthen our US equity product line-up. As the Russell 2000 Index is representative of the US small cap stocks, we hope to provide an attractive investment product for investors interested in US small cap stocks, and asset allocation.