Inspire Global Hope ETF (BLES) seeks to track an index of international developed and emerging market stocks that meet specific environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria while excluding companies involved in activities deemed inconsistent with biblical values. This faith-based international equity ETF provides exposure to non-U.S. companies across multiple regions and market capitalizations.
How It Works
BLES uses a rules-based screening methodology that first applies negative screens to exclude companies involved in abortion, pornography, gambling, tobacco, and other activities. The remaining universe is then evaluated using positive ESG factors including environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and governance practices. Holdings are weighted by market capitalization and rebalanced quarterly. The fund typically holds 200-400 international stocks across developed markets like Europe and Japan, plus emerging markets including Asia and Latin America.
Key Features
- Combines faith-based investing principles with ESG criteria, appealing to values-driven investors seeking international diversification
- Zero expense ratio makes it one of the most cost-effective ways to access screened international equity exposure
- Covers both developed and emerging international markets while maintaining strict ethical screening standards
Risks
- This ETF can lose value during international market downturns, potentially declining 40-50% in severe global recessions like 2008-2009
- Currency fluctuations can significantly impact returns as foreign holdings are converted back to U.S. dollars for American investors
- Strict screening criteria may exclude major international companies, potentially reducing diversification and creating concentration risk in certain sectors
Who Should Own This
Best suited for values-driven investors with 7+ year time horizons seeking international equity exposure as a satellite holding (10-25% of equity allocation). Requires medium-to-high risk tolerance due to international market volatility and currency risk. Ideal for faith-based investors wanting to align investments with biblical principles while maintaining global diversification.