Print Print

ETF Deep Dive: What they are and how they work

Learn more about index ETFs and how ETFs compare to traditional mutual funds.

ETFs are an increasingly popular investment tool among modern investors. In this session, we will take a deep dive into ETFs and answer some of your top questions, including the role that indexes play in the ongoing operations of ETFs, how they are structured differently than traditional mutual funds, and how those differences allow ETFs to help provide investors with many tax advantages.


Download transcript (PDF) | Download slides (PDF)



View the top 10 holdings for:

More to explore

ETFs are subject to market fluctuation and the risks of their underlying investments. ETFs are subject to management fees and other expenses.

Exchange-traded products (ETPs) are subject to market volatility and the risks of their underlying securities, which may include the risks associated with investing in smaller companies, foreign securities, commodities, and fixed income investments. Foreign securities are subject to interest rate, currency exchange rate, economic, and political risks, all of which are magnified in emerging markets. ETPs that target a small universe of securities, such as a specific region or market sector, are generally subject to greater market volatility, as well as to the specific risks associated with that sector, region, or other focus. ETPs that use derivatives, leverage, or complex investment strategies are subject to additional risks. The return of an index ETP is usually different from that of the index it tracks because of fees, expenses, and tracking error. An ETP may trade at a premium or discount to its net asset value (NAV) (or indicative value in the case of exchange-traded notes). The degree of liquidity can vary significantly from one ETP to another and losses may be magnified if no liquid market exists for the ETP's shares when attempting to sell them. Each ETP has a unique risk profile, detailed in its prospectus, offering circular, or similar material, which should be considered carefully when making investment decisions.

BlackRock and iShares are registered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc., and its affiliates.

BlackRock and Fidelity Investments are independent entities and are not legally affiliated. Votes are submitted voluntarily by individuals and reflect their own opinion of the article's helpfulness. A percentage value for helpfulness will display once a sufficient number of votes have been submitted.

Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917 1037257.1.0