Short Interest in RiverFront Strategic Income Fund Surges 467.6%

Short interest in the RiverFront Strategic Income Fund (NYSEARCA:RIGS) has experienced a significant increase of 467.6% in December 2023. As of December 15, the total short interest reached 4,393 shares, up from just 774 shares on November 30. This surge indicates that approximately 0.1% of the fund’s stock is currently short sold.

With an average daily trading volume of 16,991 shares, the short-interest ratio stands at just 0.3 days. This figure suggests that the market may have a relatively low level of bearish sentiment towards the fund, despite the recent increase in short positions.

Institutional Investment Activity

In a notable development, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC, a hedge fund, has raised its stake in the RiverFront Strategic Income Fund. According to its recent filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the firm increased its position by 7.0% during the second quarter. Following the acquisition of an additional 2,912 shares, Janney Montgomery Scott now holds 44,615 shares of RIGS, representing approximately 1.12% of the fund, valued at around $1,038,000.

The activity reflects a strategic investment approach amidst fluctuating market conditions, as institutional investors often respond to perceived opportunities for growth or value.

Current Market Performance

As of the most recent trading session, shares of the RiverFront Strategic Income Fund opened at $23.06, a slight decline of 0.9%. The fund’s 50-day moving average price is $23.17, while the 200-day moving average price stands at $23.15. Over the past year, RIGS has fluctuated between a 52-week low of $21.24 and a 52-week high of $24.32, signaling a range of market activity and investor interest.

The RiverFront Strategic Income Fund, launched on October 9, 2013, is categorized as an exchange-traded fund that primarily invests in broad credit fixed income. Managed by RiverFront, the fund adopts an actively managed global fixed-income strategy, investing in various types of fixed-income securities without currency limitations.

The recent developments in short interest and institutional investment indicate shifting dynamics within the fund, reflecting broader trends in the investment landscape. Investors and analysts will continue to monitor these changes as they may influence future market performance and investor strategies.