Explore the top income funds for 2017, including strategies focused on steady cash flow and capital appreciation. Learn about leading funds, performance highlights, and investment tips to maximize income. Ideal for investors seeking reliable returns and portfolio stability in changing market conditions.

Discover the Leading Income Funds for 2017

An income-focused investment fund is designed to deliver consistent income rather than aim for aggressive growth. These funds typically invest in dividend-yielding stocks, bonds, and real estate assets to generate reliable cash flow. They are often used within diversified portfolios and include bond, equity, or property funds. Many investors choose income funds for steady income streams, especially as target date funds for retirement planning.

By mid-2017, top performers included Boost NASDAQ 100 3x Leverage ETP with 85.14%, VT Morningstar Growth Strategy Z Inc at 79.49%, Boost EURO STOXX 50 3x Leverage ETP at 70.16%, Neptune European Opportunities B Inc GBP at 58.59%, and Baillie Gifford Greater China B Accumulation at 47.38%. These funds showcase a variety of strategies tailored to income needs.

According to TheStreet, a prominent U.S. financial news source, notable income funds include VictoryShares US Discovery Enh Vol, PowerShares S&P 500 High Dividend Low Vol, WisdomTree US HY Corp Bond, UBS FI Enhanced Global HY ETN, First Trust Preferred Securities & Income, Guggenheim BulletShares 2023 High Yield Co Bond, First Trust Managed Municipal, PZA Municipal Bond, WisdomTree Short Term High Yield CB, and PowerShares Preferred Portfolio.

While primarily focused on current income, many funds also provide opportunities for capital appreciation. Examples include The New Economy Fund (2015), investing in international stocks like Netflix and Amazon; AMCAP Fund (1967), emphasizing value stocks in healthcare and tech; Growth Fund of America (1973), with a global stock focus; Washington Mutual Investors Fund (1952), with an industrial sector tilt; and Fundamental Investors Fund (1978), combining income and growth through equities.

For 2017, experts suggest funds like Driehaus Emerging Markets Small Cap Growth and Ridgeworth Seix Floating Rate High Income, which benefit from growth strategies and rising interest rates. The Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Index Fund offers global diversification. With expected modest interest rate increases, dividend yields of about 6-7% may be achievable, while switching to preferred shares might boost income levels further.