Opportunities & Evolving ETF Solutions in Derivative Income

Core Insights - There is a significant shift in how investors are accessing income through ETFs, moving beyond traditional fixed income assets to include derivatives for yield enhancement and total return [1][2] - Derivative income ETFs, which utilize options-based strategies, are rapidly growing, with $54 billion in net new assets in 2025 and a total of $130 billion in assets under management [1] - Major asset managers like JP Morgan, BlackRock, and Goldman Sachs are optimistic about the future of derivative income ETFs, highlighting their potential to generate income in uncertain markets [1][2] Trends in Option Income - In 2025, derivative income ETFs attracted $54 billion in net new assets, making it the most popular category among actively managed ETFs [1] - JP Morgan's JEPI and JEPQ are leading examples, with a combined $77 billion in assets [1] - BlackRock emphasizes covered call strategies as a solution for income generation, indicating a shift away from traditional cash yields [1] Market Outlooks - BlackRock and Goldman Sachs both foresee continued growth in derivative income ETFs, which are designed to provide income from equity portfolios using options contracts [1][2] - Goldman Sachs notes that these funds are appealing to investors seeking regular distributions not tied to interest rates, with examples like GPIX offering an 8% trailing distribution rate [1][2] Product Innovation - The demand for derivative income ETFs is driving robust product innovation, with firms like Amplify launching new strategies, including the HAKY ETF focused on cybersecurity [1][2] - Amplify's DIVO and QDVO funds have seen significant asset growth, with a 70% increase in 2025, showcasing the firm's innovative approach to income generation [1][2] - NEOS has also entered the market with new "boosted" income ETFs, expanding the options-based income ETF category [2]