Understanding ETFs:  8 Key Terms You Should Know

Why Knowing ETF Terms Matters

Understanding key ETF terms helps you evaluate funds, reduce risks, and make informed investment decisions.

Key Term 1: NAV (Net Asset Value)

NAV is the per-unit value of an ETF. It’s calculated by dividing the total assets of the fund by the number of units issued.

Key Term 2: Expense Ratio

This is the annual fee charged by the ETF as a percentage of your investment. A lower expense ratio means better cost efficiency for you.

Key Term 3: Tracking Error

Tracking error measures how closely the ETF’s performance matches its benchmark. Lower tracking error means better replication of the index or asset.

Key Term 4: AUM (Assets Under Management)

Tracking error measures how closely the ETF’s performance matches its benchmark. Lower tracking error means better replication of the index or asset.

Key Term 5: Liquidity

Liquidity reflects how easily you can buy or sell ETF units in the market. Higher liquidity means lower costs and ease of trading.

Key Term 6: Benchmark

The benchmark is the index or standard the ETF tracks, such as Nifty 50 for equity ETFs or gold prices for commodity ETFs.

Key Term 7: Underlying Asset

ETFs are designed to track specific assets like stocks, commodities, or bonds. Knowing the underlying asset helps you align with your investment goals

Key Term 8: Rebalancing

The periodic adjustment of the ETF's portfolio to align with its benchmark or asset allocation strategy.

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