MFS and Goldman Sachs on Keys To Unlocking Active ETFs

Core Insights - The trend of increasing interest in active management is expected to continue into 2026, with Goldman Sachs and MFS Investment Management leading the charge in the active ETF market [1][2] Demand Drivers and Active Management Benefits - Active ETFs provide portfolio managers with the flexibility to adjust holdings based on current market conditions, making them suitable for various market environments [3] - Investors are drawn to the benefits of active management while also appreciating the structural advantages of ETFs, especially in uncertain macroeconomic conditions [3] - Active management is seen as a risk mitigation strategy, allowing managers to avoid underperforming assets [5] Cost and Accessibility - Misconceptions about the cost of active strategies are being addressed, with efforts from firms like Goldman Sachs to reduce fees, making active ETFs more competitive with passive options [4] - The overall ETF marketplace is experiencing a reduction in fees for active funds, enhancing their accessibility [4] Investor Education and Awareness - There is a growing demand for investor education regarding active ETFs, with investors seeking to understand the range of products available [6] - Increased awareness of the benefits of active ETFs is contributing to their adoption [6] MFS Active ETF Offerings - MFS offers a variety of active ETFs across different asset classes, with core equities being the most popular choice among investors [7] - Recent additions to MFS's active ETF lineup include the MFS Blended Research Core Equity ETF (BRCE) and the MFS Blended Research International Equity ETF (BRIE), which utilize a disciplined, bottom-up investment approach [8] Goldman Sachs Active ETF Offerings - Goldman Sachs has developed its own suite of active ETFs, including the Goldman Sachs Small Cap Core ETF (GSC), which is positioned for potential growth as the market shifts [10] - The Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Bond ETF (GSST) is gaining traction for its ability to lock in yields amid changing interest rates, while the Goldman Sachs Corporate Bond ETF (GIGL) is benefiting from tighter credit spreads [11] - The Goldman Sachs MSCI World Private Equity Return Tracker ETF (GTPE) aims to deliver private-equity-like returns through public equities, addressing investor interest in private credit [11][12]