SYLD actively selects US stocks that exhibit high shareholder yield which is calculated by considering companys cash flow measures. Selection starts with the top 20% stocks by combining two popular themes dividend payments and share buybacks. The funds quantitative algorithm then factors in the debt paydowns of the remaining stocks and applies valuation factors. The top 100 stocks that represents the best combination of shareholder yield characteristics and value metrics forms the final portfolio. The fund equal weights its holdings during normal market condition, and is rebalanced and reconstituted quarterly. SYLD generally holds large-caps, but may invest in small- and midcap stocks. Prior to March 26, 2018, the fund was actively managed, and prior to June 1, 2020, it tracked Cambria Shareholder Yield Index.