Share-split context: A minor share adjustment was recorded on Nov 17, 2015 with coefficient 1.022. Current price-return figures are already normalized to the current share basis.

What this ETF is trying to do

The Reaves Utility Income Fund (UTG) is an ETF that focuses on providing income to investors. It primarily invests in the utility sector to generate regular cash payments.

What the numbers show

As of October 7, 2026, the share price is $36.60. Because this ETF has a history of share splits, we look at split-adjusted returns to see how it has performed.

• Year-to-Date (YTD): The price return is 5.47%, while the total return is 4.21%.

• One Year: The price return was -9.79%, and the total return was -4.01%.

• Three Years: The price return was 52.12%, and the total return was 88.27%.

It is important to note the difference between these two numbers. Price return only measures the change in the share price. Total return is a broader measure that includes the distributions paid out to investors.

Income and distribution explanation

UTG is designed for income. It usually pays distributions monthly and has made 12 payments over the last year. The distribution yield is approximately 6.64%.

For beginners, it is important to remember that a high distribution yield alone can be misleading. A high yield provides cash income, but it does not guarantee that the original money you invested (the principal) will stay the same or grow.

NAV erosion explanation

"NAV erosion" happens when the underlying value of a fund's assets declines over time. StockValueFinder uses an erosion-risk score to measure this. UTG has an erosion score of 75, which is labeled as "Mild price erosion." This is a measurement of risk rather than proof that the fund's value has collapsed.

Pros

• Consistent Income: The fund provides regular monthly distributions.

• Long-term Growth: The three-year total return is strong at 88.27%.

• No Severe Warning: The severe erosion-risk flag is false.

Cons

• Recent Price Drop: The one-year price return is negative (-9.79%).

• Mild Erosion Risk: The fund has a "mild" erosion-risk label.

Beginner takeaway

UTG provides a way to earn monthly income through utility investments. While its long-term total returns have been positive, the share price has declined over the past year. Investors often look for a balance between high monthly payments and "principal stability," which means the share price stays steady. Always look at both the price return and the total return to get the full picture.