Is iShares U.S. Small-Cap Equity Factor ETF (SMLF) a Strong ETF Right Now?

SMLF is a smart beta ETF launched in 2015 that tracks the MSCI USA Small Cap Diversified Multiple-Factor Index with $4.2 billion in assets. The fund has delivered 16.2% returns year-to-date and 19.75% over the past year, but carries higher risk with a beta of 1.08 and 19.51% standard deviation. With a low 0.15% expense ratio and 928 holdings, it offers diversified exposure to small-cap stocks, though cheaper alternatives like VB and IJR are available for investors seeking lower-cost options.