Lockheed Martin Investment Management Co. has enhanced its portfolio by acquiring a significant stake in the iShares U.S. Treasury Bond ETF (BATS:GOVT). In the second quarter of this year, the firm purchased 950,000 shares, amounting to approximately $21.8 million, as reported by HoldingsChannel.com. This strategic move highlights the growing interest among institutional investors in U.S. Treasury securities amid ongoing market fluctuations.
In addition to Lockheed Martin’s substantial investment, several other institutional investors have also adjusted their positions in the iShares U.S. Treasury Bond ETF. Notably, VSM Wealth Advisory LLC entered the market in the first quarter, acquiring shares valued at around $26,000. Furthermore, TruNorth Capital Management LLC and Oliver Lagore Vanvalin Investment Group made smaller investments during the same period, with acquisitions valued at approximately $33,000 and $39,000, respectively.
Another significant adjustment came from SOA Wealth Advisors LLC, which increased its stake in the ETF by an impressive 424.7% during the second quarter. After purchasing an additional 1,359 shares, the firm now holds 1,679 shares, valued at about $39,000. Blume Capital Management Inc. also made a new investment in the ETF during the same quarter, with a position valued at approximately $40,000.
Market Performance and ETF Overview
On Friday, shares of the iShares U.S. Treasury Bond ETF opened at $23.20. The fund has displayed a consistent performance, with a 50-day simple moving average of $23.13 and a 200-day simple moving average of $22.90. The iShares U.S. Treasury Bond ETF aims to replicate the performance of the ICE U.S. Treasury Core Bond index, tracking a market-weighted index of fixed-rate nonconvertible U.S. Treasury securities that have a remaining maturity of one year or longer.
Launched on February 14, 2012, the fund is managed by BlackRock, a prominent player in the asset management industry. The ETF’s structure allows investors to gain exposure to U.S. Treasury bonds, which are often seen as a safe investment during times of economic uncertainty.
As more institutional investors position themselves in this fund, it reflects a broader trend of seeking stability through government-backed securities. For those interested in further details about institutional holdings and transactions related to the iShares U.S. Treasury Bond ETF, HoldingsChannel.com provides comprehensive insights, including the latest 13F filings and insider trades.
