Core Insights - U.S. Global Investors, Inc. is transitioning its U.S. Global GO GOLD and Precious Metals Miner ETF (GOAU) from passive indexing to active management to enhance agility in a record-setting gold market [1][3][6] - The U.S. Global Technology and Aerospace & Defense ETF (WAR) is celebrating its first anniversary, focusing on defense spending and AI developments [2][8] Group 1: GOAU Transition to Active Management - The transition to active management for GOAU is driven by historic gold prices, which reached $4,421 per ounce on December 22, 2025, amid economic and geopolitical uncertainties [3][6] - The company believes that the current market environment necessitates greater selectivity and flexibility than traditional index-based strategies can provide [4][6] - CEO Frank Holmes emphasized that the new phase of the precious metals cycle requires a focus on security selection rather than broad exposure [6][7] Group 2: WAR ETF Performance - The WAR ETF has outperformed the market since its inception, utilizing a strategy that captures growth in defense and technology sectors [8][9] - The ETF invests in areas such as aerospace, defense, semiconductors, cybersecurity, and data centers, employing a Smart Beta 2.0 approach combined with fundamental analysis [8][9] - The strategy reflects the evolution of defense into an information technology business, with significant government investments in AI and related technologies [9] Group 3: Commitment to Thematic Investing - U.S. Global Investors is committed to thematic, high-conviction sectors, aiming to deliver innovative Smart Beta 2.0 strategies that provide differentiated opportunities across various markets [9][10] - The company focuses on thoughtfully managed products designed to navigate market cycles and create long-term value for shareholders [10]