Simplify Asset Management introduced the Simplify MBS ETF (trading as MTBA), specializing in mortgage-backed securities. The fund aims to deliver appealing yields in comparison to similar U.S. Treasuries, carrying minimal credit risk, as per the firm’s announcement on November 7.
Unlike other strategies that hold older mortgage-based bonds, MTBA concentrates on securities generated in 2023. Harley Bassman, Simplify’s managing partner and the creator of the approach, highlighted that these newer securities feature larger coupons and shorter durations. This aspect is designed to offer a potential buffer against losses if the Federal Reserve maintains ‘higher for longer’ interest rates. Bassman cautioned that approaches mirroring the broad MBS market might lead to disappointment as a significant proportion of existing 30-year MBS contain low coupon rates, potentially resulting in modest distributions, extended durations, and poor positioning in the event of significant market changes.
Bassman expressed the intention behind MTBA as expanding accessibility to mortgage-bond trading for individual investors. The firm anticipates securing $20 million in funds on the initial day of ETF trading.