In option strategy, it is all about the path that is taken. If it is a sharp decline, then covered calls will give you no protection. Hard to say without knowing which path it takes. Likes HDIV with its prudent use of leverage.
It uses some leverage and owns covered call writing ETF's of other providers so is diversified across covered call writers. Since it adds extra value it is worth the higher fees, but the yield cannot be entirely counted on. It is OK as a part of your portfolio.
HDIV vs. HDIF HDIV will give you back part of the yield in the way of return of capital. The MER is a little high at 2.09%. So, will you get that much excess return. HDIF is shorter in its time frame. He can't decide which is better.
Not sure on his preference between the two. Part of HDIV's yield is ROC through covered calls. Management expense rate is a little high at 2.09. HDIF has equal weight gold, utilities, brand leaders, health leaders, etc. They are ETF's for income.
Problem is that Hamilton uses about 25% leverage. As a matter of principle, his contracts state that he doesn't use leverage of any kind. So he can't use Hamilton. But that's not an issue for everyone. The other issue is that Hamilton uses other ETFs within their ETFs, so you're paying double the fees of around 150 bps, and that's way too high for an ETF.