Episode Details

The ETF industry has changed dramatically, and 2026 could be an important turning point for investors.In this episode of the Dividend Stockpile Income Investor Education Series, I’m joined by Charlie LaRosa, Managing Director and Head of ETFs at Gabelli Funds, to take a step back from individual funds and look at the state of the ETF industry in 2026.We talk about some of the biggest trends shaping the ETF market right now, including the rapid growth of active ETFs, the continued popularity of passive investing, the explosion of new niche strategies, ETF launches and closures, industry consolidation, and what the future could look like.We also discuss what investors should actually look for when evaluating a new ETF. With so many funds launching every year, how can investors separate innovative strategies from products that may not stand the test of time?In this interview, we discuss:• The current state of the ETF industry in 2026• Why so many new ETFs are launching• The rise of active ETFs• Active vs. passive investing• Is the ETF launch boom sustainable?• Why ETF industry consolidation and M&A may continue• The risks of investing in small or brand-new ETFs• The growth of niche ETFs, including options, buffer and alternative strategies• What makes a successful ETF launch• How investors should evaluate a new ETF• Where the ETF industry could be headed over the next 5–10 years• Trends investors should be watching right nowIf you're an income investor, dividend investor, or simply use ETFs in your portfolio, this is a great conversation for understanding where the ETF industry is heading and what that could mean for investors.