An intelligent approach aiming to boost total returns in IG credit
Demand for non-core exposure to investment grade credit is gaining traction as investors look for higher returns.
January recorded the highest monthly net inflows on record, lifting EMEA ETF AUM to an all time high of US$3.38 trillion.
Value is still in play, with investors maintaining a preference for non US exposures.
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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.
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 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.
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.
Demand for non-core exposure to investment grade credit is gaining traction as investors look for higher returns.
Gold and silver prices set new record highs earlier this year. Find out what’s been driving precious metal prices as well as what investors should know when considering these assets for their portfolios.
Options-based income strategies can be used in a portfolio to seek consistent income, diversify income sources, and reduce equity exposure while still participating in the equity market.