What this ETF is trying to do

The PGIM Nasdaq-100 Buffer 12 ETF - July (PQJL) is an exchange-traded fund. While the specific strategy details are not in the data, its name suggests it is linked to the Nasdaq-100 index and uses a "buffer" approach.

What the numbers show

As of October 5, 2026, the share price for PQJL was $32.12.

To understand how the price has changed, we can look at the price returns:

• Year-to-Date (YTD) Price Return: The share price has increased by approximately 10.71%.

• One-Year Price Return: The share price has increased by approximately 13.27%.

The data also provides "total return," which includes both the change in share price and any distributions paid out. The one-year total return was approximately 13.28%.

For a simple example, if you had invested $10,000 exactly one year ago based on the estimated price of $28.35, the price-only increase of 13.27% would mean your investment grew to approximately $11,327.

Income and distribution explanation

This ETF has a distribution yield of approximately 0.01%. In the last 12 months, it has made only one payout. The distribution frequency is listed as irregular or less frequent.

It is important for new investors to know that a high distribution yield alone can be misleading. Distributions provide cash income, but they do not guarantee that the original money you invested (the principal) will stay the same or grow.

NAV erosion explanation

"NAV erosion" happens when the net asset value of a fund declines over time, which can be a risk for some income-focused ETFs.

For PQJL, the erosion-risk score is 100, and the erosion label states "No price erosion detected." The erosion severity is rated as "good," and the severe erosion-risk flag is false. This means the screening rules did not detect a pattern of substantial price deterioration.

Pros

• Positive Price Growth: The ETF has shown positive price returns for both the year-to-date and one-year periods.

• Low Erosion Risk: The fund currently has a "good" erosion severity rating.

Cons

• Low Income: The distribution yield is very low, and payouts are irregular.

• Limited History: There is no three-year or five-year return data available.

Beginner takeaway

PQJL has seen its share price grow over the past year. While it provides a small amount of cash income, it is not a high-yield fund. It currently shows a low risk for NAV erosion, meaning its price has remained stable or grown rather than steadily declining.