WASHINGTON, April 19 /PRNewswire/ -- In intraday trading, the SPADE Defense Index (AMEX:DXS) exceeded the 2000 level for the first time in history. An investment benchmark for companies involved with defense, homeland security, and space, the SPADE Defense Index continued a multi-year rally in which it has outperformed the S&P 500 for six consecutive years and in 19 of the last 23 quarters. For the year, the Index is up more than 13%. The Index also serves as the basis for the Powershares Aerospace & Defense Portfolio ETF (AMEX:PPA). Since its launch on Oct 25, 2005, the exchange traded fund is up nearly 18%. According to Scott Sacknoff, Manager of the Index, "Investors are increasingly noticing companies involved in defense, homeland security, and space. Not just for the growth in the Index over the last half decade but as a hedge against world events and other economic factors. As the situation in Iran continues to unfold, the defense sector is an area gaining increasing attention. With CNBC reporting that analysts believe that continued government spending in this area is likely to continue for some time, it would not surprise me to see the index go higher. [Though investors should recognize that past performance is not indicative of future gain]" For more information on the SPADE Defense Index, please visit http://www.spadeindex.com/ Questions can also be directed to the Index at (202) 349-3917 Disclaimers & Legal The SPADE Defense Index is a registered trademark of the ISBC. The ISBC makes no representation regarding the advisability of investing in any product based on the SPADE Defense Index. Investors should recognize that past performance is not indicative of future gain. Powershares is a registered trademark of Powershares Capital Management. DATASOURCE: SPADE Defense Index CONTACT: Scott Sacknoff of SPADE Defense Index, +1-202-349-3917 Web site: http://www.spadeindex.com/

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