Weekly ETF Industry News Recap | March 30-April 3, 2026

ETF Weekly Update (March 30-April 3): New launches, fund moves, and filings shape a dynamic week across U.S., Europe, and Canada.

United States ETF Industry News

ETF Launches - Equities

iShares Launches Small-Cap Quality ETF With Sector Neutral Tilt

BlackRock has introduced the iShares MSCI USA Small-Cap Quality Factor ETF (SQLT), tracking a sector-neutral index of high-quality U.S. small caps. The strategy selects stocks based on return on equity, earnings stability, and low leverage, while maintaining sector weights similar to the broader market. The index is rebalanced semi-annually, offering targeted factor exposure with diversified sector alignment.

Pacer Launches India Quality ETF Targeting High-Growth Market

Pacer has introduced the ActiveAlpha India Quality ETF (INDQ), offering focused exposure to 20–30 Indian companies selected for quality, value, and momentum. Built with ActiveAlpha, the strategy draws from the Nifty 500 and Microcap 250 indices and rebalances quarterly. The launch taps into India’s structural growth story, positioning the ETF as a targeted global diversification tool.

Thornburg Launches ETF Share Classes for Mutual Funds

Thornburg has introduced ETF share classes for its American Opportunities (TAOZ) and Focus Growth (TFGZ) funds, becoming one of the first firms to adopt this structure and the first to list them on Nasdaq. The move expands access to its active strategies and reflects growing demand for ETF wrappers, with Thornburg’s ETF platform surpassing $600m in assets.

Pzena Launches Large-Cap Value ETF With Concentrated Approach

Pzena has launched the Pzena U.S. Large Cap Value ETF (PZLV), an actively managed fund targeting 30 to 80 large-cap stocks trading below intrinsic value. The strategy follows Pzena’s classic bottom-up value process, with a focus on companies facing temporary challenges but offering long-term upside. The fund may invest up to 20% abroad and could carry meaningful exposure to financials.

Pzena Launches International Value ETF Focused on Deep Discounts

Pzena has introduced the actively managed International Value ETF (PZIV), targeting non-U.S. companies trading at significant discounts to intrinsic value. The portfolio will hold 50–100 stocks selected through fundamental research, with exposure across developed, emerging, and frontier markets. The fund may allocate up to 35% to emerging markets and emphasizes classic value investing with active company engagement.

Tema Launches Space ETF With Direct SpaceX Exposure

Tema has launched the actively managed Tema Space Innovators ETF (NASA) on NYSE Arca, offering pure-play exposure to the space economy. The fund includes a 10% allocation to private SpaceX via a special purpose vehicle, alongside listed space-related firms. With a 0.75% fee, it targets growth driven by satellite connectivity, defense, and commercial space expansion.

Roundhill Launches DRAM ETF Targeting Memory Chip Leaders

Roundhill Investments has launched the Roundhill Memory ETF (DRAM), offering focused exposure to global memory semiconductor companies central to AI infrastructure. The fund concentrates on firms producing DRAM, HBM, and NAND, with top holdings including Samsung, SK hynix, and Micron. DRAM aims to capture rising demand for high-performance memory as a key bottleneck in scaling AI technologies.

Vega Capital Partners Launches Multi-Index Covered Call ETF With Weekly Income

The VegaShares SPX NDX RTY Premium Income ETF (ODTE) is an actively managed ETF using a synthetic covered call strategy across the S&P 500, Nasdaq-100, and Russell 2000. The fund dynamically allocates exposure and sells short-dated (0DTE/1DTE) call options to generate weekly income, while maintaining equity exposure via options or index-linked instruments. The approach converts upside into income, potentially limiting gains while enhancing yield through frequent option premiums.

VanEck Expands TruSector Line With TRUF and TRUH ETFs

VanEck has launched two actively managed sector ETFs: the VanEck Financial TruSector ETF (TRUF) and VanEck Healthcare TruSector ETF (TRUH). TRUF targets leading U.S. financial firms across banking, insurance, and capital markets, while TRUH focuses on dominant healthcare companies in pharma, biotech, and services. Both funds invest at least 80% in their respective sectors, emphasize market leaders, and may use derivatives to enhance exposure.

VanEck Launches VEFA Targeting Analyst Sentiment in EAFE

VanEck has launched the VanEck MSCI EAFE Analyst Sentiment ETF (VEFA), tracking an index that selects 100 developed-market stocks with improving analyst outlooks. The strategy uses revisions in earnings, sales, cash flow, price targets, and recommendations to identify opportunities across 21 countries. Designed as a core international allocation, VEFA aims to capture excess returns as non-U.S. equities regain momentum.

Innovator Launches Dual Direction ETFs With 10% and 15% Buffers

Innovator has launched two ETFs—Equity Dual Directional 15 Buffer ETF (DDFA) and Equity Dual Directional 10 Buffer ETF (DDTA)—designed to generate positive returns in both rising and moderately declining markets. Using FLEX options, DDFA targets a 15% inverse performance threshold and buffer, while DDTA targets 10%. Both reset annually and require investors to hold through the full outcome period to achieve the intended results.

AllianzIM Expands Buffered ETF Suite With 8 New Strategies

AllianzIM has launched eight buffered ETFs, including a new international uncapped strategy and seven quarterly-reset funds tied to major indexes like the S&P 500, Nasdaq-100, and Russell 2000. The lineup offers 5% or 15% downside buffers with capped or uncapped upside, aiming to help investors stay invested amid volatility. The expansion broadens access to diversified, options-based risk management tools.

ARK Launches DIET Q2 Buffer ETF With 50% Downside Protection

ARK has launched its DIET Q2 Buffer ETF (ARKI), a structured product tied to ARKK that targets 50% downside participation over a 12-month outcome period. The fund uses options to introduce a 5% hurdle before upside participation begins, offering partial protection with capped, path-dependent returns. It is designed for investors who hold through the full outcome period.

Aptus Launches Laddered Buffer ETF to Reduce Timing Risk

Aptus has introduced the Laddered Buffer ETF (ABUF), a 0.30% fee strategy designed to smooth entry timing and enhance upside potential versus traditional buffered funds. By laddering options exposure, the ETF aims to reduce the need for active rebalancing across vintages while maintaining downside protection and tax efficiency. The launch expands Aptus’ growing options-based ETF lineup.

ETF Launches - Fixed Income

DoubleLine Launches Ultrashort Income ETF as Cash Alternative

DoubleLine has introduced the Ultrashort Income ETF (DLUX), an actively managed fund investing in short-term, investment-grade government, corporate, and securitized debt. Targeting a duration of one year or less, the ETF aims to enhance income while preserving capital and liquidity. With a 0.18% fee and benchmarked to 3-month T-bills, DLUX is positioned as a low-volatility cash alternative.

Weitz Launches Short-Duration Bond ETF Targeting Income Stability

Weitz Investment Management has introduced the actively managed Short Duration Bond ETF (WSDB), focusing on income with limited interest rate risk. The fund invests at least 80% in bonds, including government, corporate, securitized debt, and loans, with duration maintained between one and 3.5 years. It may hold up to 15% in high-yield debt and use derivatives selectively for hedging or return enhancement.

Sterling Capital Converts Ultra Short Bond Fund Into Active ETF

Sterling Capital has converted its Ultra Short Bond Fund (BUSRX) into the Sterling Capital Ultra Short Bond ETF (SCUB), an actively managed strategy focused on income and total return. The fund applies a top-down approach, adjusting duration, sector exposure and credit risk based on macroeconomic trends, interest rate expectations and relative value analysis, with security selection driven by fundamental research.

Sterling Capital Converts Short Duration Bond Fund Into Active ETF

Sterling Capital has converted its Short Duration Bond Fund (BSGAX) into the Sterling Capital Short Duration Bond ETF (SCSB), an actively managed strategy targeting income and total return. The fund uses a top-down approach, adjusting duration, sector allocation and credit exposure based on macro trends, interest rate outlook and relative value analysis, while selecting securities through fundamental research.

ETF Launches - Cryptocurrency

Global X Launches Ethereum Covered Call ETF for Weekly Income

Global X has launched the Global X Ethereum Covered Call ETF (EHCC), its first ether-focused fund, expanding beyond bitcoin strategies. The actively managed ETF writes call options on ether-related ETPs to generate weekly income while maintaining exposure to price movements. With a 0.75% expense ratio, EHCC aims to turn crypto volatility into yield, though upside potential is capped by the covered call strategy.

Volatility Shares Launches Altcoin ETFs With Leveraged Options

Volatility Shares has launched six ETFs—CHNL (Chainlink), CHNU (2x Chainlink), CRDD (Cardano), CRDX (2x Cardano), STLR (Stellar), and STLU (2x Stellar)—offering both standard and leveraged exposure. The funds use futures, swaps, and crypto-linked ETPs via a Cayman subsidiary rather than holding tokens directly, expanding ETF access to altcoins beyond bitcoin and ether.

ETF Changes

Simplify Takes Over WLDR ETF Ahead of Rebrand

Simplify Asset Management will replace Regents Park as adviser to the WLDR ETF effective April 1, 2026, pending shareholder approval, with Affinity remaining sub-adviser. The fund will be renamed Simplify Affinity World Leaders Equity ETF on April 27. Investment strategy and fees remain unchanged, while the transition follows a broader asset sale to Horizon Investments and signals continued consolidation in ETF advisory roles.

LG Replaces QRAFT as Sponsor of AI-Powered LQAI ETF

LG Management Development Institute has replaced QRAFT Technologies as sponsor of the LQAI ETF, with LG’s AI research now powering the fund’s stock selection. The strategy uses a multi-agent AI system to identify and weight top 100 U.S. large-cap stocks based on short-term return potential and risk factors, refreshing every four weeks. LG will also assume key expenses and support marketing, marking a deeper integration into the ETF.

T-REX 2X EOSE ETF to Execute 1-for-25 Reverse Split

The T-REX 2X Long EOSE Daily Target ETF (EOSU) will undergo a 1-for-25 reverse stock split effective after market close on April 14, 2026, with trading on a split-adjusted basis beginning April 15. Shareholders will receive one share for every 25 held, while the creation unit size remains unchanged. The move is typically aimed at boosting the ETF’s share price and maintaining exchange listing standards.

Quadratic Capital Cuts IVOL ETF Fees With New Waiver Through 2028

The Quadratic Interest Rate Volatility and Inflation Hedge ETF will lower its net expense ratio to 0.98% starting April 1, 2026, following a management fee waiver approved by its board. Adviser Krane Funds will waive 0.04% of fees through August 2028. The change modestly reduces costs for investors in the actively managed ETF focused on interest rate volatility and inflation hedging strategies.

SPAC and New Issue ETF to Change Ticker From SPCX to SPCK

The SPAC and New Issue ETF will change its ticker symbol to SPCK from SPCX effective April 7, 2026, while continuing to trade on Nasdaq. The fund’s investment strategy and structure remain unchanged. Investors are advised to use the new ticker going forward and disregard references to SPCX in prior fund documents, including the February 2026 prospectus materials.

ALPS Revamps EQL to Equal-Weight Sector S&P 500 Strategy

ALPS ETF Trust will shift the EQL ETF to track the Modelist/VettaFi Equal Weight Sector 500 Index starting June 2026. The new approach equal-weights all 11 GICS sectors while maintaining market-cap weighting within each sector, aiming to reduce concentration risk versus traditional S&P 500 exposure. The index rebalances quarterly and keeps exposure to the 500 largest U.S. stocks, refining EQL’s sector-balanced strategy.

KraneShares Expands AI ETF to Include Private Markets Exposure

KraneShares will rename its Artificial Intelligence and Technology ETF to the Artificial Intelligence and Technology Public and Private ETF, effective June 1, 2026. The update allows the fund to invest in both publicly traded and privately offered AI and tech companies, marking a shift toward broader exposure across public and private markets within the sector.

ETF Liquidations

REX to Liquidate Bitcoin Convertible Bond ETF Amid Low Demand

The REX Bitcoin Corporate Treasury Convertible Bond ETF (BMAX) will liquidate around April 21, 2026 after failing to gain sufficient assets. The fund will stop trading and delist from Nasdaq on April 13, with remaining shareholders receiving cash distributions that may be taxable. The closure highlights ongoing challenges for niche crypto-linked ETF strategies struggling to scale.

Tuttle Shutters MSTR 0DTE Covered Call ETF Months After Launch

Tuttle Capital’s MSTR 0DTE Covered Call ETF (MSTK) will liquidate on or about April 22, 2026, following board approval due to limited asset growth and high operating costs. The fund will stop trading after April 14 and delist from Cboe BZX. Shareholders will receive cash distributions upon liquidation, which may be taxable, marking a swift closure less than a year after launch.

Putnam to Liquidate Seven ESG ETFs by June 2026

Putnam will close seven ESG ETFs—ESG Core Bond, ESG High Yield, ESG Ultra Short, PanAgora ESG Emerging Markets Equity, PanAgora ESG International Equity, Sustainable Future, and Sustainable Leaders—with liquidation expected around June 2, 2026. Trading will halt in late May as portfolios are wound down, with shareholders receiving cash distributions that may trigger taxable events.

ETF Filings

KraneShares Targets China AI Leaders With New ETF Filing

The KraneShares China AI and Technology ETF will focus on China-based AI and tech firms, requiring at least 80% allocation to companies tied to the AI value chain. The fund tracks a Solactive index that scores firms by AI exposure across five segments, influencing weighting caps. It may invest up to 15% in private companies and use derivatives. The strategy blends market cap with AI intensity, offering targeted exposure to China’s evolving AI ecosystem.

Skylar Files ETF Focused on U.S. Electricity Futures

The Skylar Electricity Futures ETF (MWHS) will invest primarily in electricity futures, targeting exposure to U.S. power markets like ERCOT and PJM. The actively-managed fund will use a Cayman subsidiary and may employ swaps to access contracts, alongside Treasury collateral. By focusing on short-dated futures and rolling positions, the ETF offers a novel way to trade power prices, though performance will be influenced by volatility and roll yield dynamics.

First Trust Files Capped S&P 500 ETF With 20% Barrier Structure

The FT Vest U.S. Equity Quarterly 20 Barrier ETF is quarterly target outcome fund tied to SPY that uses FLEX options to provide upside participation to a capped level while shielding investors from up to the first 20% of losses only if SPY is down 20% or less at period end. Unlike a traditional buffer ETF, losses beyond that threshold are fully borne. The structure resets every three months, making timing and holding period critical for investor outcomes.

First Trust Files Quarterly Buffered S&P 500 ETF With 15% Downside Protection

The FT Vest U.S. Equity Quarterly 15 Buffer ETF will use FLEX options on SPY to deliver a defined outcome over rolling three-month periods. The strategy offers a 15% downside buffer with upside capped at a set level, resetting each quarter. Returns depend on holding through the full period, and gains above the cap are forfeited. The structure highlights continued demand for short-term buffered ETFs tied to the S&P 500.

Westwood Targets AI-Driven Power Demand With New ETF Filing

The Westwood Salient Enhanced Power & Infrastructure ETF (PWRX) will focus on power and infrastructure companies positioned to benefit from rising electricity demand tied to AI, electrification, and onshoring. The actively-managed fund will invest across traditional and renewable energy, utilities, and data infrastructure, while using a covered call strategy to enhance income. It will hold 40–60 names, primarily in North America, and may allocate up to 25% to MLPs. PWRX will list on the Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE).

Wasatch Targets SMID-Cap Growth With Active ETF Filing

The Wasatch Small/Mid Cap ETF will focus on small- and mid-cap growth stocks, investing at least 80% in equities within the Russell 2000 and Russell Midcap ranges. The actively-managed strategy uses bottom-up fundamental analysis to identify high-growth companies, with limited foreign exposure (up to 20%) and the ability to invest in IPOs. Structured as non-diversified, the fund may take concentrated sector positions.

Invesco Files Actively Managed Mid-Cap Multi-Style ETF

The Invesco Mid-Cap Integrated Strategies ETF (IMID) will target mid-cap equities using a three-sleeve approach: growth, value, and blend. The fund will allocate roughly one-third to each sleeve, with flexibility to adjust based on market conditions. It focuses on bottom-up stock selection, combining high-growth names, undervalued companies, and balanced exposures. While primarily U.S.-focused, it may invest globally and is structured as non-diversified, allowing concentrated positions.

Nuveen Targets U.S. Infrastructure With Active Equity ETF Filing

The Nuveen U.S. Infrastructure ETF (NUIF) will invest in U.S.-tied infrastructure companies across sectors like utilities, transport, and energy. The actively-managed fund may hold equities, MLPs, and REITs, with selective use of derivatives for risk management and return enhancement. It can allocate up to 20% abroad and 10% to emerging markets, while running a concentrated, non-diversified portfolio.

North Square Files Five Active ETFs Across Key Strategies

North Square Investments has filed five active ETFs spanning multiple asset classes. The North Square Convertible Bonds ETF (NSIC) targets income and equity upside through global convertibles. The North Square Global Infrastructure ETF (NSII) invests in infrastructure companies worldwide across sectors like utilities and transport. The North Square Global Macro Bonds ETF (NSIB) uses a flexible, macro-driven approach to global fixed income. The North Square Disciplined Value ETF (NSIV) focuses on undervalued U.S. large caps, while the North Square Growth Opportunities ETF (NSIG) targets high-growth U.S. companies using fundamental analysis.

PGIM Files Quarterly Buffer ETFs With Tiered Downside Protection

PGIM has filed for four actively managed S&P 500 buffer ETFs offering 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% downside protection over rolling three-month periods. Using FLEX options tied to SPY, the funds cap upside while shielding initial losses, with exposure resetting quarterly. Returns depend on holding through the full outcome period, and performance may vary if shares are bought or sold mid-cycle.

Tradr Targets Single Stocks With New 2X Inverse ETFs

Tradr has filed for three leveraged inverse ETFs tied to individual stocks: Applied Optoelectronics (AAOI), Oracle (ORCL), and Blue Owl Capital (OWL). Each fund aims to deliver -200% of the daily performance of its underlying stock, resetting daily and not designed for long-term tracking. The strategies are non-fundamental and can change without shareholder approval, underscoring their tactical, high-risk trading use rather than buy-and-hold investing.

Tradr Files 2X Leveraged ETFs Across 17 Single Stocks

Tradr has filed for 2X long single-stock ETFs covering Ciena (CIEN), Diamondback Energy (FANG), Fabrinet (FN), FTAI Aviation (FTAI), ImmunityBio (IBRX), nLIGHT (LASR), L3Harris (LHX), Cheniere Energy (LNG), Lattice Semiconductor (LSCC), MKS Inc. (MKSI), Blue Owl (OWL), Qnity (Q), Rambus (RMBS), Swarmer (SWMR), T1 Energy (TE), Tower Semiconductor (TSEM), and Valero (VLO). Each targets 200% of daily returns, emphasizing short-term trading use.

Defiance Files -2x Inverse ETFs on Space and Taiwan Equities

Defiance has filed two leveraged inverse ETFs targeting niche themes: one offering -200% daily exposure to the BITA US Space Select Index, which tracks 10 “pure space” companies, and another delivering -2x exposure to Taiwan equities via ETFs like FLTW and EWT. Both use swaps and options with daily rebalancing, making them suited for short-term trading and sensitive to volatility and compounding over longer periods.

Defiance Files Leveraged and Inverse ETFs Tied to Cohere Stock

Defiance has filed for leveraged and inverse single-stock ETFs linked to Cohere Inc. (exploring IPO), targeting ±200% of the stock’s daily performance. The funds will use swaps and options to reset exposure daily, with long and inverse versions amplifying gains or losses. Designed for short-term trading, returns over longer periods may diverge due to compounding and volatility, highlighting elevated risk for investors.

Leverage Shares Files 2x Bull and -1x Bear SK Hynix ETFs

Leverage Shares has filed for single-stock ETFs tied to SK Hynix, offering 200% daily leveraged long exposure and -100% inverse exposure. The funds will primarily use swaps and options to achieve daily targets, with frequent rebalancing and high turnover. Both products reset daily, making them sensitive to volatility and compounding effects, and are designed for short-term trading rather than long-term holding.

Leverage Shares Files Bitcoin Volatility Futures ETF Trio

Leverage Shares has filed a three-fund suite tied to the Bitcoin Volatility Index: a long fund, a 2x leveraged long fund, and a -1x inverse fund. The ETFs would gain exposure mainly through Bitcoin volatility futures, swaps, options, and a Cayman subsidiary rather than direct index holdings. The filings highlight heavy contango, compounding, and daily reset risks, making the leveraged products geared toward short-term tactical traders.

Tuttle and Strive File Income ETF Tied to Bitcoin Firms

The T-Strive Digital Credit ETF (DGCR) will be an actively managed fund that targets income from preferred securities issued by “Bitcoin treasury” companies. The fund will focus on instruments like STRC and SATA, using swaps and leverage to enhance yield rather than track a benchmark. While tied to firms holding Bitcoin on balance sheets, it will not invest directly in Bitcoin and may run a concentrated portfolio.

GraniteShares Targets Anduril With 2x Leveraged ETF Pair

GraniteShares has filed for two single-stock ETFs tied to Anduril Industries, offering 2x long and -2x inverse daily exposure. The funds aim to amplify short-term moves in Anduril shares, reflecting growing demand for leveraged plays on defense tech firms. If approved, they would extend the firm’s lineup of high-risk, tactical trading tools focused on individual stocks.

ETF Ecosystem

Goldman Sachs Completes Innovator ETFs Acquisition

Goldman Sachs Asset Management has completed its acquisition of Innovator ETFs, adding 171 defined outcome ETFs to its platform. The deal strengthens Goldman’s presence in one of the fastest-growing ETF segments and expands its global lineup to over 240 ETFs with $90 billion in assets. The move underscores Goldman’s push to scale its active ETF business and broaden solutions for institutional and retail investors.

CoinShares Lists on Nasdaq via SPAC at $1.2bn Valuation

Crypto asset manager CoinShares has moved its listing to Nasdaq via a SPAC merger with Vine Hill Capital, valuing the firm at $1.2bn. The $6bn AUM manager aims to tap deeper US capital markets despite weak crypto sentiment, as bitcoin remains well below its 2025 peak. The shift supports its evolution beyond ETPs into broader digital asset strategies, including DeFi and tokenised assets.

Europe ETF Industry News

ETF Launches - Equities

WisdomTree Adds Global and Asia Defence ETFs in Europe

WisdomTree has launched the WisdomTree Global Defence UCITS ETF (WDGF) and WisdomTree Asia Defence UCITS ETF (WDAF), listed across major European exchanges. WDGF (0.40% TER) targets global firms with ≥25% defence revenue, while WDAF (0.50%) focuses on Asia-Pacific ex-China with a 10% threshold. Both apply weapons screens and undercut rivals, reflecting growing demand for defence exposure.

BlackRock Launches Europe Small Cap ETF Amid Shift From US

BlackRock has introduced the iShares MSCI Europe Small Cap UCITS ETF (ESCE) with a 0.25% fee, offering exposure to 800+ smaller European companies. Listed on Euronext Amsterdam, the fund targets value-oriented firms and reflects growing investor interest in non-US equities as confidence in US large caps wanes. The launch aligns with broader industry efforts to expand European and ex-US equity offerings.

Eurizon Launches EM ‘Magnificent 30’ Equity ETF on LSE

Eurizon SLJ Capital has listed the CO Eurizon SLJ EM Equity Magnificent 30 UCITS ETF on the LSE, offering exposure to 30 high-quality emerging markets stocks via an active strategy. The fund, launched with ~$13.9M, combines macro and stock selection and is available in EUR, GBP, and USD share classes (M30E, M30G, M30). The launch expands Eurizon’s ETF footprint amid rising demand for active EM strategies.

M&G Launches AI-Driven Global Equity ETF in Europe

M&G Investments has launched the actively managed M&G Global Maxima Equity UCITS ETF, listed on Deutsche Börse (MMAX) and the London Stock Exchange in USD (MGMX) and GBP (MGMS). The fund uses a machine learning-based quantitative model to select stocks. The strategy analyzes over 10,000 global companies daily using fundamental, technical, and sentiment data. It builds a concentrated portfolio of 80–120 stocks, including emerging markets, aiming to identify outperformers through a systematic, data-driven approach.

HANetf Launches Nuclear Value Chain ETF with Infrastructure Capital

HANetf and Infrastructure Capital Advisors have introduced the Nuclear Renaissance UCITS ETF (NUKZ), offering exposure across the full nuclear energy value chain. Tracking the Vettafi Nuclear Renaissance index, the fund spans uranium fuel, reactor technology, construction, and utilities, with capped allocations by segment. Listed in Europe with a 0.85% TER, the launch reflects growing investor focus on energy security and nuclear’s strategic role.

Lloyd Capital Expands ETF Range With International Equity Launch

HANetf and Lloyd Capital have launched the Lloyd International Equity UCITS ETF (OTUS) with a 0.85% fee, targeting high-quality non-U.S. companies. The fund focuses on “quality compounders” with strong margins, cash flow, and returns, selected using Lloyd’s 4Ms framework. It marks the firm’s third UCITS ETF, following FEP and GEP, which have each gathered nearly $300m in assets.

Planned Launches

Pictet Plans AI-Driven ETF Expansion Into Europe

Pictet is preparing to launch five AI-enhanced active equity ETFs in Europe, spanning U.S., global, emerging, and European markets. The $955bn Swiss manager aims to combine AI models with active management to generate alpha, marking its European ETF debut after entering the U.S. market in 2025. The Ireland-domiciled UCITS range will be supported by Waystone for ETF structuring and capital markets.

ETF Changes

DWS Eases ESG Screens as Defence Sector Gains Acceptance

DWS has relaxed weapons-related exclusions across nine MSCI-tracking equity ETFs, reflecting shifting investor and policy sentiment toward defence in Europe. Following an MSCI consultation, the changes remove conventional weapons bans and narrow nuclear exclusions while adding a 30% carbon intensity reduction target. The move aims to reduce tracking error and aligns with broader industry adjustments amid geopolitical tensions and evolving ESG standards.

Invesco Cuts MSCI World ETF Fee to Match Lowest in Europe

Invesco has reduced the TER on its €5.6bn MSCI World UCITS ETF (SC0J) from 0.19% to 0.05%, matching the lowest fee in the segment and intensifying price competition. The cut follows €500m in outflows over the past year and aligns the fund with Invesco’s broader low-cost lineup. Its swap-based structure may also deliver tax advantages, potentially boosting returns versus physical ETFs

ETF Liquidations

DWS Closes Four Bond ETFs as Demand Weakens

DWS will shut four euro fixed income ETFs—XLIQ, XYP0, DXSV, and XBCT—in April 2026 amid weak inflows and low trading activity. The funds focus on short-duration bonds, a segment hit by rising rates since 2022 as investors shift to higher-yield alternatives. The closures are part of a broader lineup overhaul, even as DWS continues expanding its ETF offering in higher-demand areas.

ETF Ecosystem

Franklin Templeton Registers First UCITS ETF Range in Poland

Franklin Templeton has registered 13 UCITS ETFs for distribution in Poland, marking its entry into the market. The lineup spans global equities, climate strategies, single-country exposures, thematic funds and fixed income. The move targets growing retail and institutional demand as ETF adoption accelerates via online platforms, positioning the firm to expand its footprint in Central and Eastern Europe.

SIX Adds ESG and Equal-Weight Options to Swiss Index Range

SIX has launched two new benchmarks—SPI ESG 25 and SMI Equal Weight—expanding its Swiss equity index suite. The SPI ESG 25 offers a concentrated, liquid ESG portfolio of 25 stocks selected by size, liquidity, and ESG ratings, while the SMI Equal Weight assigns equal 5% weights to its 20 constituents to reduce concentration risk. The move targets demand for ESG-focused and alternative weighting strategies.

Canada ETF Industry News

ETF Launches - Equities

CIBC Expands Avantis Lineup With Emerging Markets ETF

CIBC Asset Management has launched the Avantis CIBC Emerging Markets ETF (CAEM), now trading on the TSX following its initial offering. The fund adds to the firm’s growing Avantis ETF suite, leveraging American Century’s active approach in emerging markets. The launch reflects continued expansion of actively managed ETFs as Avantis surpasses $125bn in assets globally.

Brompton Launches Global Income and Cash Flow ETFs

Brompton has launched the Brompton Global Equity HighPay ETF (PAYG) and the Brompton Global Cash Flow Kings ETF (KNGG). PAYG is an actively managed global equity income fund using covered calls and ~25% leverage with semi-monthly payouts, while KNGG targets high free cash flow companies via a fund-of-funds structure, offering long-term growth with embedded underlying fees.

Humilis and LongPoint Launch Trio of Active Equity ETFs

LongPoint and Humilis have launched three active ETFs on the TSX: HBTA (tactical North American equities), HBDV (dividend growth across U.S. and Canada), and HBOP (opportunistic large-cap equities). The funds bring Brian Belski’s strategies back to Canadian investors, emphasizing fundamental, research-driven stock selection and long-term positioning, underscoring rising demand for active equity ETFs in Canada.

ETF Filings

IA Clarington To Expand Lineup With Two Active ETF Series

IA Clarington has filed to launch ETF series for two existing strategies, marking further mutual fund-to-ETF expansion. The Global Multifactor Equity ETF (IMFE) will target large-cap stocks worldwide using momentum, quality, and value factors, while the Thematic Innovation ETF (ITIN) will focus on U.S. large caps benefiting from technological change. Fees are set at 0.50% and 0.45%, respectively.

RBC Targets Modest Leverage With New Enhanced ETF Series

RBC GAM has filed three ETF series using up to 1.25x leverage, expanding its lineup of enhanced strategies. The funds—focused on Canadian dividends (RCDL), North American value (RNVL), and U.S. dividends (RUDL)—primarily invest in existing RBC funds or ETFs. Each aims to boost income or value exposure with modest leverage, with fees ranging from 0.65% to 1.00%.

ETF Liquidations

Fidelity Canada to Close Income ETFs and Streamline Fund Lineup

Fidelity Investments Canada plans to terminate the Fidelity Canadian Monthly High Income ETF (FCMI) and Fidelity Global Monthly High Income ETF (FCGI) by July 24, 2026, as part of efforts to simplify its lineup. The ETFs will be delisted and assets distributed to investors. The move also includes related mutual funds and additional strategies pending shareholder approval.

BMO to Close Three ETFs and Real Estate Tech Fund by June

BMO will terminate three ETFs—BMO BBB Corporate Bond Index ETF (ZBBB), BMO Global Agriculture ETF (ZEAT), and BMO MSCI ACWI Paris Aligned Climate Equity ETF (ZGRN)—alongside the BMO Brookfield Global Real Estate Tech Fund (including ETF series TOWR), effective around June 19, 2026. The funds will be delisted mid-June, with assets liquidated and distributed in cash to investors.

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.