Summary
This document is a report titled '2026 Global ETF Outlook: From wrapper to backbone' that outlines the evolving landscape of Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) as they transition from simple investment wrappers to integral components of investment portfolios and market structures. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the global ETF market, highlighting key trends and strategic imperatives for issuers, investors, and ecosystem partners. The report details the significant growth of the ETF market, which reached nearly US$20 trillion in 2025, driven by record inflows and the introduction of new ETFs. It identifies three primary trends shaping the ETF marketplace: the tension between access and structure, the rise of active ETFs, and the increasing importance of infrastructure and distribution. The document also discusses regional megatrends, noting differences in ETF adoption and growth across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. It emphasizes the need for ETF issuers to manage product complexity and capacity constraints as the market continues to innovate and expand.
