In today’s uncertain markets, investors are no longer content with riding out volatility unhedged. Whether seeking to protect against drawdowns, smooth income, or build more outcome-focused portfolios, derivative-based ETFs are emerging as essential tools. From buffer strategies to income overlays, these vehicles allow investors to stay exposed to markets without giving up control over risk.

Thematic ETFs took center stage in the U.S. ETF market over the past few years, but 2024 was a stark reminder that not all themes have staying power. As investors recalibrated amid interest rate uncertainty, macroeconomic resets, and headline fatigue, some of the buzziest ideas of the past cycle saw significant outflows. Meanwhile, a more selective class of strategies emerged as winners, revealing an important shift in how U.S. investors are approaching thematic exposure.

For many asset managers entering the ETF world for the first time, the question of control is front and center. Who actually owns the fund? Can I be replaced? What decisions can I make? What am I liable for? These concerns often arise from a lack of clarity around how ETFs are structured under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (‘40 Act).

With interest rates at their highest levels in over a decade, inflation reshaping market behavior, and equity volatility shaking traditional asset allocation models, asset managers are rediscovering bonds, and the ETF wrapper is proving to be a powerful tool for delivering them. There’s finally room to get creative again. Duration, credit quality, curve positioning, and risk hedging are back in play.

ETF issuers are shattering records. According to the Tidal ETF Industry KPI Report March 3, 2025, issuers are raking in an estimated $17.4 billion in expense ratio revenue over the past year, a testament to the explosive growth in rising AUM and the boom in Active and Derivative ETFs. Read More:

What does it mean now that active ETFs have crossed the $1 trillion mark? Discover how this milestone is reshaping the ETF landscape, and why Tidal is at the forefront of the movement.

While passive index ETFs have long dominated the market, the rise of active ETFs is changing the landscape. Investors are pleading for more than just broad-market exposure; they want strategic, risk-managed portfolios that can adapt to changing market conditions or provide the perfect final piece to complete their portfolio. Read on to know more

Tax season is here, and for many investors, that means finding ways to keep more of their money. If you’re holding highly appreciated stocks or a dividend-heavy portfolio, you know the challenge of managing capital gains taxes while preserving your investments. Read on to learn more.

While diversification offers stability, concentration offers the potential for much higher returns, albeit at the cost of increased volatility. Let’s dive into how these two concepts play out in the ETF landscape.

In 2023, the derivatives-based ETF market accounted for $46 billion out of the $349 billion in active AUM. Fast forward to January 12th, 2025, and that figure has skyrocketed to $168 billion, representing approximately 18% of the $900 billion in active AUM. Read on to know more:

A 351 conversion—the process of transferring appreciated assets into an Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) without necessarily triggering immediate recognition of taxable gains if all relevant IRS conditions are met—is a compelling strategy for tax efficiency and portfolio modernization. Read on to know more:

The year 2024 has been nothing short of extraordinary, particularly for the Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) industry. This year has shattered records across the board, from new listings to net inflows and total assets under management. Read on to know more:

Section 351 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code provides a solution, a tax-free conversion of SMA holdings into an Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF). This strategy not only defers capital gains but also capitalizes on the operational and structural benefits of ETFs.

Evaluating active ETFs is a whole different ball game compared to passive funds. With active management, you’re not just assessing costs or tracking a simple benchmark, you’re trying to figure out if the fund’s pursuit of alpha is worth the higher fees.

Exclusionary ETFs are transforming the landscape of investing by filtering out companies that don't align with specific values. Discover how these funds can enhance your portfolio while staying true to your principles.

Launching an ETF independently can be overwhelming due to significant costs, regulatory hurdles, and time demands. White labels provide turnkey solutions, handling the behind-the-scenes processes without being visible in your ETF branding.

Buffered ETFs AUM jumped to $41,4B in just one year. With demand soaring and more products launching than ever before, find out more about this explosive trend in our latest article.

The rise of politically aligned ETFs allows investors to put their money into companies and funds that align with their personal or political beliefs. As the U.S. gears up for another election cycle in less than a month, a new breed of politically focused ETFs is gaining traction: Unusual Whales Subversive Democratic Trading ETF (NANC) and Unusual Whales Subversive Republican Trading ETF (KRUZ).

The idea of Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) has become increasingly popular for those who want to take control of their financial future and potentially retire long before traditional retirement ages. FIRE is all about financial freedom—giving you the ability to pursue your passions without being tied to a regular job. If you’re interested in achieving this kind of independence, building a well-balanced investment portfolio is key.

Option income ETFs have been around for over a decade but have only recently gained significant momentum and investor attention. As ETF innovation accelerates, propelled by new regulations and a growing demand for advanced investment strategies, these funds are capturing the interest of both seasoned and new investors alike. Discover how option income ETFs are reshaping the investment landscape.

Confidence in active management is growing. Allocators are shifting focus to actively managed ETFs, with allocations on the rise. Discover why active management is making waves, particularly in ETFs, and what this means for the future of ETF investing.

Thinking about launching an ETF? The ETF industry offers robust growth and numerous advantages for both investors and product providers. With benefits like portfolio transparency, lower costs, tax efficiency, and liquidity, ETFs are a powerful tool for reaching new audiences and enhancing your market presence. Discover how launching an ETF can streamline your operations and expand your reach. Read on to find out.

Ever wondered how an ETF is born? It all starts with an idea, often sparked by the need for better investment solutions. From exploring new market opportunities to converting mutual funds, innovation in the ETF space meets market demands through creativity and strategy. Read on to explore the fascinating blend of art and science behind the birth of these financial products.

As the AUM pendulum swings away from Mutual Funds and in favor of ETFs, issuers find themselves reconsidering strategy in order to capture future investors. But not all conversions are guaranteed success. What key criteria should be considered? Read on to find out.

Confidence in active management is growing. Allocators are shifting focus to actively managed ETFs, with allocations on the rise. Discover why active management is making waves, particularly in ETFs, and what this means for the future of ETF investing.

From foreign markets to derivatives, discover the challenges and solutions in achieving optimal tax outcomes with the ETF wrapper.

There are many ways to launch an ETF. One of the recurring themes we see among new ETF issuers is a misconception around Advisor vs. Sub-Advisor, and the apparent myth of control.