Recapping ETF flows in January
January delivered an exceptionally strong start for EMEA ETFs, with US$54.7 billion in net new assets, the largest monthly total on record, pushing overall AUM to a new peak of US$3.38 trillion. While early-year inflows are typical, this month stood out not only for its scale but also for the distinct shifts in investor positioning across asset classes.
Equities – Risk appetite continues outside the US
Equity ETFs continued to dominate activity, attracting US$43.1 billion as investors added risk primarily through non-US exposures. Core global equities gathered US$9.4 billion, but their share of overall equity demand fell as flows tilted toward Emerging Markets and Europe. This rotation suggests investors are further diversifying away from US assets amid a weaker Dollar and geopolitical uncertainty. US equities remained in positive territory, with interest centered on equal-weight S&P 500 strategies as investors sought broader factor balance.
Fixed income – Cash management extends its momentum
Fixed income ETFs brought in US$13.2 billion, led once again by strong demand for cash management solutions. These strategies accounted for US$2.2 billion of January’s inflows, reinforcing the trend seen throughout 2025 as investors look for higher-yielding, lower-volatility alternatives. Emerging Market and global government bond exposures also contributed meaningfully to fixed income demand.
Commodities – Precious metals swing from surge to sell-off
A dramatic rally in precious metals early in the month was followed by an equally sharp reversal, prompting latemonth profittaking in gold and silver ETCs. This shift generated US$2.4 billion in outflows, marking a notable drag on what was otherwise a strong month across asset classes.
What to focus on this month
- Precious metals shine through volatility
The macro and geopolitical environment remain supportive for precious metals.
- The rotation continues
US stocks continue to lag most other markets, and we see little reason for this ongoing rotation to reverse.
- New opportunities in AT1 CoCo Bonds
For European investors looking to diversify away from USD assets due to a weaker dollar, EUR AT1s could be an exciting opportunity.