Weekly ETF Industry News Recap | August 18 - August 22, 2025

ETF Weekly Update (August 18 - August 22, 2025): New launches, fund moves, and filings shape a steady week across U.S., Europe, and Canada.

U.S. Weekly ETF Industry News

U.S. ETF Launches

Amplify Launches SLJY ETF Combining Silver Miners and Covered Calls

Amplify has introduced the Amplify SILJ Covered Call ETF (SLJY), offering exposure to junior silver miners alongside a covered call strategy. Targeting an 18% annualized option income and monthly payouts, SLJY blends income generation with growth potential. The fund complements Amplify’s $1.5B SILJ ETF, aiming to diversify income portfolios.

Themes ETFs Re-Launches BOTT ETF with New Index and Focus on Humanoid Robotics

Themes ETFs has re-launched the Themes Humanoid Robotics ETF (BOTT), now tracking the Solactive Global Humanoid Robotics Index NTR (SOLGHRB). BOTT offers low-cost exposure (0.35% expense ratio) to the full humanoid robotics ecosystem—including service robots, industrial automation, assistive healthcare technologies, and AI computing infrastructure. The new index broadens BOTT’s scope to target companies driving next-gen robotics and human-robot interaction.

VanEck Launches TruSector ETFs to Reduce Tracking Error

VanEck has introduced two actively managed ETFs—VanEck Consumer Discretionary TruSector ETF (TRUD) and VanEck Technology TruSector ETF (TRUT)—that offer full market-cap sector exposure. The TruSector ETFs aim to minimize tracking error caused by RIC diversification rules by blending individual stocks with targeted ETFs, allowing closer alignment with uncapped sector benchmarks.

Defiance Expands Leveraged Income ETF Lineup with 5 New Funds

Defiance ETFs launched five leveraged income ETFs—PLT, HIMY, HOOI, AMDU, and SMCC—targeting Palantir, Hims, Robinhood, AMD, and Supermicro. Each offers 150%–200% exposure with credit call spreads to boost income and reduce downside risk, blending growth potential with income-focused strategies.

YieldMax Launches SLTY ETF Targeting Weekly Income from Short Positions

YieldMax has introduced the Ultra Short Option Income Strategy ETF (SLTY), offering weekly income and inverse exposure to 15–30 U.S. stocks. SLTY uses options, like put writing, to profit from volatility and falling stock prices. The actively managed ETF is the latest addition to YieldMax’s Ultra family.

Zacks Launches QUIZ, Its First International ETF Focused on Quality Stocks

Zacks Investment Management has debuted the Zacks Quality International ETF (QUIZ), its fourth actively managed ETF and first to target developed markets abroad. QUIZ invests in 75–250 high-quality companies across regions like Japan, Germany, and the UK, using Zacks’ earnings-driven, research-based approach.

Janus Henderson Launches Active AI ETF (JHAI)

Janus Henderson has launched the Janus Henderson Global Artificial Intelligence ETF (JHAI), an actively managed fund targeting companies enabling or benefiting from AI. Managed by a seasoned tech team, JHAI seeks long-term growth by leveraging deep fundamental research to identify global AI-driven disruptors across sectors.

John Hancock Launches Global Senior Loan ETF (JHLN)

Manulife John Hancock Investments has launched the John Hancock Global Senior Loan ETF (JHLN), targeting income through a diversified portfolio of senior secured floating rate loans. Actively managed by Manulife | CQS IM, JHLN aims to offer income, duration management, and total return potential in today’s volatile markets.

J.P. Morgan Launches JOYT ETF, Expanding Options-Based Total Return Suite

J.P. Morgan Asset Management has launched the JPMorgan Equity and Options ETF (JOYT). JOYT targets total return by combining dividends, options premium, and capital appreciation—offering lower volatility than broad U.S. large-cap benchmarks. Managed by the JEPI and JEPQ team, the fund caters to investors less focused on income and more on growth.

ProShares Launches QQXL: 2x Leveraged ETF on Nasdaq-100 Top 30

ProShares has introduced the ProShares Ultra QQQ Top 30 ETF (QQXL), the first ETF targeting 2x the daily returns of the Nasdaq-100 Top 30 Index. QQXL offers leveraged exposure to tech leaders like Nvidia, Apple, Meta, and Palantir, expanding ProShares' $40B suite of Nasdaq-100 linked leveraged and inverse ETFs.

Tradr Debuts 2X Leveraged ETFs for Lam Research and MongoDB

Tradr ETFs has launched LRCU and MDBX, offering 2X daily exposure to Lam Research and MongoDB. Targeted at active traders, the ETFs tap into AI-driven semiconductor and database sectors. This brings Tradr’s leveraged suite to 23 products, including recent AI and tech-focused entries.

Northern Trust Launches 11 New ETFs, Expands Lineup With Distributing Ladder and Tax-Exempt Strategies

Northern Trust Asset Management (NTAM) has rolled out 11 new ETFs, marking its first launches since 2022. The new funds span three suites, including innovative distributing ladder ETFs, inflation-linked bond strategies, and core passive municipal bond funds. All are managed by David Alongi, Michael Chico, and Timothy Blair.

Suite 1: Tax-Exempt Distributing Ladder ETFs (NYSE – 0.18% expense ratio)

These ETFs aim to return capital at specific maturity dates while providing monthly tax-exempt income.

• Northern Trust 2030 Tax-Exempt Distributing Ladder ETF (MUNA)
• Northern Trust 2035 Tax-Exempt Distributing Ladder ETF (MUNB)
• Northern Trust 2045 Tax-Exempt Distributing Ladder ETF (MUNC)
• Northern Trust 2055 Tax-Exempt Distributing Ladder ETF (MUND)

Suite 2: Inflation-Linked Distributing Ladder ETFs (NYSE – 0.10% expense ratio)

Targeting inflation protection and income, these funds also return capital at scheduled maturity years.

• Northern Trust 2030 Inflation-Linked Distributing Ladder ETF (TIPA)
• Northern Trust 2035 Inflation-Linked Distributing Ladder ETF (TIPB)
• Northern Trust 2045 Inflation-Linked Distributing Ladder ETF (TIPC)
• Northern Trust 2055 Inflation-Linked Distributing Ladder ETF (TIPD)

Suite 3: Passively Managed Tax-Exempt Bond ETFs (NASDAQ – 0.05% expense ratio)

Designed as core municipal bond holdings with varying durations.

• Northern Trust Short Term Tax-Exempt Bond ETF (TAXS)
• Northern Trust Intermediate Tax-Exempt Bond ETF (TAXI)
• Northern Trust Tax-Exempt Bond ETF (TAXT)

These launches bring Northern Trust’s total ETF count to 39 (including its existing 28 FlexShares ETFs), with a full rebrand to the Northern Trust name planned by 2026.

U.S. ETF Updates

Calamos Autocallable Income ETF Expands Strategy With Box Spreads

Calamos Autocallable Income ETF (CAIE) will add box spreads using FLEX Options to better utilize cash and boost income. Its 80% asset policy will now include these options. Changes take effect on or around October 20, 2025.

OneAscent Small Cap ETF to Broaden Mandate and Change Name

OneAscent Small Cap Core ETF (OASC) will update its objective and 80% policy effective Oct. 21, 2025. The fund will aim to outperform the Bloomberg US 2500 Index and expand its focus to include both small- and mid-cap stocks. It will also change its name to OneAscent Enhanced Small and Mid Cap ETF.

Strive Bond ETFs Adopt Manager-of-Managers Structure

Strive’s STXT and BUXX ETFs will now operate under a manager-of-managers framework, allowing the adviser to hire or replace sub-advisers without prior shareholder approval. The change, approved under an SEC order, aims to improve operational efficiency. Shareholders will be notified of new sub-adviser appointments within 90 days.

U.S. ETF Filings

Horizon Investments Files for Small/Mid Cap Core Equity ETF With Options Strategy

The Horizon Small/Mid Cap Core Equity ETF is an actively managed fund targeting U.S. small- and mid-cap equities, including REITs. The fund may use put spread strategies with FLEX Options to generate income and manage risk. It will apply quantitative and fundamental analysis for stock selection.

Horizon Investments Files for International Equity ETF With Options Overlay

The Horizon International Equity ETF is an actively managed International Equity fund targeting developed and emerging markets. The fund may use put spread strategies with FLEX Options to generate income and manage risk. It will invest in equities, ADRs, and ETFs, with exposure to at least three non-U.S. countries.

Horizon Investments Plans International ETF With Built-In Risk Assist® Strategy

The Horizon International Managed Risk ETF is an actively managed international fund combining global equity exposure with its proprietary Risk Assist® strategy. The fund aims to reduce downside risk by shifting to cash or Treasuries during volatility, and may also use complex options strategies, including put spreads and collars, for income and hedging.

Fundstrat Files for Thematic Small & Mid-Cap ETF Using 'Granny Shot' Method

Tom Lee’s Fundstrat Capital has filed for the actively managed Fundstrat Granny Shots US Small- & Mid-Cap ETF focused on U.S. small- and mid-cap stocks tied to evolving economic themes. Using a proprietary “Granny Shot” strategy, the fund blends top-down macro analysis with quantitative screening, targeting 5–10 themes and rebalancing quarterly across 20–100 stocks.

Fundstrat Files Income-Focused Large-Cap ETF With Options Overlay

Tom Lee's Fundstrat Capital has filed for the actively managed Fundstrat Granny Shots US Large Cap & Income ETF combining options-based income strategies with a thematic large-cap equity portfolio. The fund aims to generate monthly income through option premiums while pursuing long-term growth via its proprietary “Granny Shot” stock selection process. It will hold 20–50 stocks and rebalance quarterly.

Eventide AM Files Values-Based International ETF Focused on Stakeholder Impact

The Eventide International ETF (ESIM) will invest in non-U.S. companies aligned with Christian values. The actively managed fund aims to track the Bloomberg World ex US Index while applying strict values-based screening on ethics, social impact, and environmental stewardship.

REX Shares Files for Leveraged Solana ETF With Weekly Payout Strategy

The REX SSK Growth & Income ETF is an actively managed fund that offers 105%–150% leveraged exposure to a Solana-linked ETF, while using covered call and options strategies to generate weekly income. The fund will reset exposure daily and rely on technical signals, with options and swaps driving leveraged returns tied to SOL plus staking rewards.

Defiance Files Leveraged Crypto ETFs for Solana and XRP With Income Strategy

Defiance has filed for two actively managed ETFs offering 150–200% daily exposure to either Solana (SOL) or Ripple (XRP). Both funds use futures, swaps, options, and ETPs tied to their respective assets, alongside credit call spreads to generate weekly income. They do not invest directly in crypto but gain exposure through derivatives.

Defiance Files Leveraged ETFs for SoFi and Bitmine With Income Strategy

Defiance has filed for two new ETFs offering 150–200% daily leveraged exposure to SoFi (SOFI) and Bitmine (BMNR) stock. Both funds use swaps and options to amplify returns and generate weekly income via credit call spreads. While designed for enhanced upside, the income strategy may cap gains on a portion of leveraged exposure.

Defiance Files ETF Tracking Insider Buying and Founder-Led Stocks

The Defiance Corporate Insider Trades ETF (TRDR) will track the Indxx Corporate Insider Trades Index, focusing on U.S. stocks with net insider buying and, in some cases, founder involvement. The fund will hold up to 30 momentum-ranked stocks, with increased weight to founder-led firms. It is expected to have significant exposure to energy and financials.

Defiance Files ETF Targeting High Short Interest U.S. Stocks

The Defiance Corporate Insider Trades ETF (TRDR) will track the BITA US Short Interest Select Index, which includes 30 U.S.-listed stocks with the highest short interest ratios. The fund aims to capitalize on potential short squeezes, rebalances monthly, and weights holdings by float-adjusted market cap, with single-stock caps to manage concentration risk.

ProShares Files for 2x Leveraged ETF Tracking Gemini’s Stock

The ProShares Ultra GEMI ETF will target 2x daily returns of Gemini Space Station Inc. (GEMI), a newly public crypto platform. The fund will use swaps and other derivatives to provide leveraged exposure and will rebalance daily to maintain its target. Gemini offers crypto trading, staking, custody, and other digital asset services.

Simplify Files for Dual-Strategy ETF Combining U.S. Equities and Futures

The Simplify US Equity PLUS Managed Futures Strategy ETF (CTAP) is an actively managed fund that pairs large-cap U.S. equity exposure with a managed futures overlay. The fund aims to deliver returns from both asset classes simultaneously by using derivatives, including swaps tied to its own Managed Futures ETF (CTA). It targets full exposure to both strategies per dollar invested.

Vanguard Files for Active Growth ETF Share Class Focused on U.S. Stocks

The Vanguard Wellington U.S. Growth Active ETF Shares (VUSG) is a new ETF share class of an actively managed fund targeting large-cap U.S. companies with above-average earnings growth. The fund will invest at least 80% of assets in U.S. securities, following a growth-focused stock selection approach.

Vanguard Files for Dividend-Focused Active ETF Share Class

The Vanguard Wellington Dividend Growth Active ETF Shares (VDIG) is a new ETF share class of an actively managed fund investing in dividend-paying stocks. The strategy targets high-quality, primarily large-cap U.S. companies with strong earnings growth and a history or potential of raising dividends, aiming for long-term total returns across diverse sectors.

Vanguard Files for Active Value ETF Share Class Focused on U.S. Stocks

The Vanguard Wellington U.S. Value Active ETF Shares (VUSV) is a new ETF share class for a fund targeting undervalued U.S. large- and mid-cap stocks. Using an active approach, the fund seeks companies trading below historical norms based on metrics like earnings and book value, with at least 80% of assets in U.S. securities.

Roundhill Plans Meme Stock Covered Call ETF for Weekly Income

The Roundhill Meme Stock Covered Call ETF uses a covered call strategy tied to its Meme Stock ETF. The fund aims to generate weekly income by selling out-of-the-money call options while holding the Meme Stock ETF. This strategy limits upside gains but offers consistent income from volatile, social-media-driven stocks.

Roundhill Plans 2X Daily Leveraged Meme Stock ETF

The Roundhill Daily 2X Long Meme Stock ETF will target 2X the daily return of its Meme Stock ETF. Using swaps, futures, and direct holdings, the fund resets exposure daily to maintain leverage. It offers high-volatility, short-term exposure to meme stocks, rebalanced frequently and not designed for long-term holding.

Calamos Plans Autocallable ETF Tied to U.S. Tech Exposure

Calamos has filed for an ETF offering income via swaps tied to the US Equity Laddered Autocall Index. The index reflects a rotating portfolio of synthetic autocallable notes linked to a volatility-managed U.S. equity benchmark. The fund aims for steady income with partial downside protection and weekly portfolio rebalancing.

Hedgeye AM Files for 130/30 Long-Short Equity Strategy ETF

The Hedgeye 130/30 Equity ETF (HELS) will use a 130/30 long-short strategy. It aims for alpha via long exposure to undervalued U.S. stocks and short positions in overvalued names. The fund uses proprietary signals and fundamental analysis to time trades and manage risk across short-, medium-, and long-term horizons.

Hedgeye AM Plans 150/50 Fourth Turning-Themed Long/Short ETF

The Hedgeye Fourth Turning ETF (HEFT) will use a 150/50 long-short strategy based on Fourth Turning theory. The fund targets real assets, defense, and reshoring themes while shorting sectors exposed to inflation and policy risk. It aims for real returns in a high-volatility, macro-driven environment through active exposure across asset classes.

First Trust Plans 210% Notional Exposure ETF in Stocks, Bonds & Gold

The First Trust Enhanced Stocks, Bonds & Gold ETF is an actively managed ETF targeting equal notional exposure to the S&P 500, intermediate Treasuries, and gold futures via a Cayman subsidiary. The fund aims for 210% total notional exposure and rebalances monthly, using futures and leverage to pursue long-term total return while managing risk.

Leverage Shares Files for 2X Daily Leveraged Single-Stock ETFs

Leverage Shares has filed for a series of 2X leveraged ETFs offering daily exposure to individual stocks, including NET, NU, OKTA, OSCR, SBUX, SHOP, SPOT, TEM, and GEMI. These funds aim to deliver twice the daily return of each underlying stock, making them tools for tactical, short-term trading rather than long-term investing.

Federated Hermes Files for Global Equity Growth ETF

The Federated Hermes International Leaders ETF will focus on long-term capital growth by investing in leading foreign equities, mainly from developed markets. The fund may also hold U.S. and emerging market stocks, along with derivatives and ETFs to manage risk or enhance returns. Currency hedging via derivatives may also be employed.

Federated Hermes Files for Actively Managed Short-Duration Bond ETF

The Federated Hermes Ultrashort Bond ETF will focus on investment-grade fixed income, with up to 35% in high-yield bonds. The fund targets a duration of one year or less and may invest in CMOs, foreign debt, and derivatives. It seeks to balance return and risk while maintaining a short average maturity of 18 months or less.

WisdomTree Files for Global ex-U.S. Quality Growth ETF

The WisdomTree Global ex-U.S. Quality Growth Fund (formerly, WisdomTree Global ex-U.S. Quality Dividend Growth Fund) will track the WisdomTree Global ex-U.S. Quality Growth Index and provides exposure to 200 non-U.S. large- and mid-cap stocks with strong growth and quality metrics. The index equally splits exposure between developed and emerging markets and is rebalanced semi-annually. As of August 2025, it is heavily weighted toward tech, consumer discretionary, and European equities.

21Shares Files for 2X Leveraged Crypto ETFs Tracking SUI and Dogecoin

21Shares has filed for two ETFs offering 2x daily exposure to the price of SUI and Dogecoin (DOGE). Both funds will use swaps, futures, and primarily European-listed Spot ETPs via Cayman subsidiaries to achieve their targets. The ETFs will rebalance daily and may also invest in related companies and derivatives to manage market access and tax constraints.

21Shares Files for Actively Managed Multi-Asset Crypto ETF

The 21Shares Active Crypto ETF will be actively managed ETF targeting total return through diversified exposure to 10–15 crypto assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. The fund may invest via ETPs, swaps, futures, staking, and crypto-related equities. A Cayman subsidiary will hold certain assets for tax efficiency. Short positions and active trading may also be used to manage risk and capture alpha.

U.S. ETF Ecosystem Updates

SEC Delays Decisions on XRP and Altcoin ETF Filings to October

The SEC has postponed rulings on five XRP ETF proposals from 21Shares, Grayscale, Bitwise, CoinShares, and Canary Capital, moving the deadline to October 19. The delay aligns with reviews of other altcoin ETFs, including Litecoin, Solana, Cardano, and Dogecoin, as the agency seeks public input and evaluates regulatory risks.

Europe Weekly ETF Industry News

EU ETF Launches

UmweltBank Launches Article 9 Green & Social Bond ETF

UmweltBank has listed the UmweltBank UCITS ETF – Green & Social Bonds Euro, focused on euro-denominated bonds funding renewable energy, housing, and transport. Classified under Article 9 SFDR, the fund applies strict ESG exclusions and targets investment-grade issuers. It tracks the Solactive UmweltBank Green & Social Bond EUR IG 0–5 Year Index.

State Street Expands Bond ETF Lineup with 1–5 Year Corporate Bond Fund

State Street has launched the SPDR Bloomberg 1–5 Year U.S. Corporate Bond UCITS ETF (USC5), listed on Deutsche Börse and LSE with a 0.08% TER. Tracking short-term U.S. dollar corporate bonds, USC5 broadens State Street’s U.S. bond suite to four ETFs and enhances exposure to the short end of the investment-grade curve.

EU Planned ETF Launches

State Street and Blackstone to Launch Euro AAA CLO ETF in Europe

State Street is teaming up with Blackstone to launch the State Street Blackstone Euro AAA CLO UCITS ETF later this year. Domiciled in Ireland, the fund will tap into Europe’s fast-growing CLO ETF market. This marks another move in State Street’s strategy to co-develop fixed income ETFs with active managers.

DWS to Launch European Defence Tech ETF at Competitive Fee

DWS is set to launch the Xtrackers Europe Defence Technologies UCITS ETF (XDEF), tracking firms in defense, space, and cybersecurity. Debuting with a temporary 0.15% fee, XDEF joins a growing field of European defence ETFs, now holding $3.7B. Its index favors companies with strong revenue ties and high-quality defense patents.

EU ETF Closures

WisdomTree to Close Recycling and Automotive ETFs Amid Thematic Decline

WisdomTree will shut WRCY and WCAR ETFs on November 25 due to low demand, reflecting a broader downturn in thematic ETFs. Both funds launched in 2022, with AUM under $3.5M. Thematic ETFs saw net outflows in 2024 for the first time in over a decade, prompting similar closures by Fidelity and BlackRock.

EU ETF Ecosystem Updates

Xtrackers by DWS Lists First ETFs on Nasdaq Stockholm with Levler

Xtrackers by DWS has launched six ETFs on Nasdaq Stockholm, offering exposure to global, U.S., emerging markets, and AI themes. Listed in Swedish kronor, the ETFs include Lvlr XT Global ex USA, Amerikanska Storbolag, AI & Big Data, Amerikanska Småbolag, Amerikanska Techbolag, and Tillväxtmarknader.

EU ETF People

Global X Names George Taylor Co-Head of ETFs Europe Amid Leadership Shifts

Global X has promoted COO George Taylor to co-head of ETFs for Europe, overseeing operations, product, and controls. He'll also act as interim head of business development. The move follows the departures of key executives, including Rob Oliver, Morgane Delledonne, and Ignatius Faissal, amid ongoing leadership reshuffles.

Canada Weekly ETF Industry News

Canada ETF Launches

Purpose Investments Launches 10 Covered Call Yield ETFs on Canadian Stocks

Purpose Investments has added 10 new ETFs to its Yield Shares lineup on Cboe Canada, each offering tax-efficient monthly income through a covered call strategy with modest leverage. The ETFs target top Canadian companies: TDY (TD), RBCY (RBC), BNSY (Scotiabank), ENBY (Enbridge), SHPY (Shopify), CNQY (CNRL), TY (TELUS), DOLY (Dollarama), ATDY (Couche-Tard), and BNY (Brookfield).

Harvest Unveils 11 High Income ETFs Tied to Canadian Blue-Chip Stocks

Harvest ETFs has launched 11 new funds on the TSX, each providing high monthly income through modest leverage and covered call strategies. The ETFs and their underlying stocks are: AEME (Agnico Eagle), BCEE (BCE), CCOE (Cameco), CNQE (Canadian Natural Resources), ENBE (Enbridge), RYHE (Royal Bank of Canada), SHPE (Shopify), SUHE (Suncor), TDHE (TD Bank), TEHE (TELUS), and HHIC (a diversified Canadian high income portfolio).

Canada ETF Updates

Hamilton ETFs Renames HDIV to Enhanced Canadian Covered Call ETF

Hamilton Capital Partners has changed the name of the Hamilton Enhanced Multi-Sector Covered Call ETF to Hamilton Enhanced Canadian Covered Call ETF effective August 14, 2025. The ETF’s ticker (HDIV), CUSIP, investment objective, and strategy remain unchanged. The new name will be reflected on the TSX starting August 25.

BMO Splits Popular Asset-Allocation ETFs 3-for-1 to Boost Accessibility

BMO Asset Management has executed a 3-for-1 split on several of its asset-allocation ETFs, including ZBAL, ZGRO, and ZEQT, effective August 15. The move aims to make the funds more affordable for smaller investors. Units like ZBAL dropped from over $40 to around $14 following the split.

Canada ETF Filings

Fidelity Files for Global SMID and Multi-Alt Equity Funds in Canada

Fidelity has filed for two new ETFs: Fidelity Global Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund (FGSM, 0.85% fee) and Fidelity Multi-Alt Equity Fund (FMAE, 1.10% fee). FGSM targets global small, mid, and micro-cap stocks, while FMAE blends multiple alt strategies with a 2.5% allocation to Bitcoin for reduced equity market correlation.

LongPoint Files for -2x Leveraged Short ETFs on COIN and MSTR

LongPoint plans to launch two -2x single stock ETFs: COID (Coinbase) and MSTZ (MicroStrategy), offering double inverse daily exposure. Filed last week, both ETFs carry a 1.55% management fee and expand LongPoint’s growing suite of leveraged single-stock strategies.

Capstone Enters ETF Market with Biblically Informed Equity Funds

Capstone Asset Management has filed for its first ETFs: BIVC (Canadian equities) and BIVU (U.S. equities), each with a 0.80% fee. Both funds will hold 20–30 dividend-paying stocks aligned with Biblical values, marking Capstone’s debut in the Canadian ETF space.

Please note this article is for information purposes only and does not in any way constitute investment advice. It is essential that you seek advice from a registered financial professional prior to making any investment decision.