Core Insights - The ETF industry has experienced significant growth, achieving record inflows of nearly $1.4 trillion, nearly 1,100 new launches, and record trading volume, referred to as the "ETF Triple Crown" [1] - ETF assets have reached $13.2 trillion, accounting for 37% of the combined assets of mutual funds and ETFs, with predictions that ETF assets will soon surpass mutual fund assets [2] ETF Awards and Trends - The SPDR Portfolio S&P 500 ETF (SPYM) was awarded ETF of the year, having nearly $100 billion in assets and $33 billion in organic flows, outperforming larger competitors [3] - The Vanguard 0-3 Month Treasury Bill ETF (VBIL) was recognized as the favorite new ETF, being the largest by assets among 2025 launches at over $4 billion, demonstrating the continued appeal of low-cost options [4] - The Horizon Landmark ETF (BENJ) was noted for its clever naming, while the Baron First Principles ETF (RONB) and Bitwise Dogecoin ETF (BWOW) received mentions for their unique branding [5] ETF Issuer Recognition - Vanguard was named ETF issuer of the year, launching 15 ETFs and attracting $421 billion, which constitutes one-third of all ETF flows [6] Industry Trends - The concept of "ETF as a Share Class" was highlighted as the story of the year, with 91 filers seeking exemptive relief, indicating a shift in the industry's recognition of ETFs as legally equivalent to mutual funds [7]

Baron Capital on Monday launched five actively managed exchange-traded funds, betting that its long-term record – including a large, early investment in SpaceX – will translate to growing demand for active strategies in an ETF format.The new funds – the Baron First Principles ETF (RONB), Baron Global Durable Advantage ETF (BCGD), Baron SMID Cap ETF (BCSM), Baron Financials ETF (BCFN) and Baron Technology ETF (BCTK) – began trading on Monday. Each ETF is designed to mirror investment approaches that Baron Ca ...