After a free fall that saw metals and mining stocks decline over 80% throughout the summer and fall, the sector recovered strongly in December before pulling back towards the end of the month.
The SPDR S&P Metals and Mining ETF (XME) hit a 52 week high of $94.34 on June 30 and bottomed at $17.37 on November 20. The equal-weighted fund holds 24 companies with portfolio concentrations of 70% in materials and 30% in energy.
Top holdings as of December 26 include Nucor, Newmont Mining, Alcoa and Arch Coal.
Another ETF that provides exposure to metals and mining is the PowerShares Global Gold and Precious Metals Portfolio (PSAU). The fund invests in the largest and most liquid companies involved in gold and other precious metals mining-related activities. Top holdings includeNewmont Mining, Anglo Platinum and Barrick Gold.
See the ETF Directory for a complete listing of Sector ETFs.