

There's a lot of enthusiasm directed to artificial intelligence (AI) and mega-cap growth stocks. Still, shares of companies returning capital to shareholders by way of buybacks and dividends are delivering the goods this year.

One or two solid dividend stocks can do a portfolio well, but a broad basket of such names accessible in efficient fashion is an enticing proposition for equity income investors who want to avoid the stock-picking burden. On that note, the ALPS Sector Dividend Dogs ETF (SDOG) is one of the payout ETFs to consider.

Investors are looking at sector-balanced dividend strategies to protect gains and establish durable yield. Speaking during a recent SS&C ALPS Advisors due diligence session, Danny Schwab and Kyle Kleckner outlined why an equal-weighted value rotation is fundamentally reshaping core equity allocations.

Arkadios Wealth Advisors acquired a new position in shares of ALPS Sector Dividend Dogs ETF (NYSEARCA:SDOG) in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 8,272 shares of the company's stock, valued at approximately $538,000. Other institutional investors

The ALPS Sector Dividend Dogs ETF (NYSEARCA:SDOG) pays a trailing dividend yield of 3.4%, distributing $2.38 per share annually across quarterly payments.

Electrification ETFs, commodities, and the line between investing and speculation were at the center of this week's ETF Prime. Host Nate Geraci welcomed Paul Baiocchi, head of fund sales and strategy at SS&C ALPS Advisors, and Dave Nadig of ETF.com.

Investors love to have their cake and eat it too. That's especially true when it comes to equity income investing.

The Alps Sector Dividend Dogs ETF offers a defensive, income-oriented alternative to large-cap growth and tech-focused strategies. SDOG's Dogs of the Dow methodology delivers higher yields, lower valuations, and reasonable risk-adjusted returns when compared to DIA. The ETF's defensive sector mix and limited exposure to secular growth drivers constrain its long-term upside potential.