By asset class
Equity (stock) ETFs
A simple way to own tiny slices of many companies at once, all in a single fund.
What Equity (stock) ETFs are
An equity ETF is a fund that holds shares (also called stocks) in companies. A share is a small piece of ownership in a business. When you buy one unit of the ETF, your money is spread across all the companies the fund holds, instead of riding on just one.
Historically, equities have been the main long-term growth part of many people's portfolios, which is why many beginners start here. "Equity" and "stock" mean the same thing, so an equity ETF and a stock ETF are the same idea.
The trade-off is that share prices move up and down, sometimes a lot in a single year. Holding hundreds or thousands of companies in one fund softens the blow of any single company doing badly, but it does not remove the ups and downs of the market as a whole.
At a glance
Why beginners look here
Instant spread of holdings
One purchase can spread your money across hundreds or thousands of companies, so no single business decides your outcome.
Built for the long run
Equities have historically been the main long-term growth part of many portfolios, which is why beginners often start here.
Expect ups and downs
Share prices can fall sharply in some years, so equity ETFs suit money you can leave invested for a long time.
What to look for
Popular Equity (stock) ETFs
A few of the largest, pulled live from the screener — an example, not a recommendation.
UBS Core MSCI Japan UCITS ETF hGBP dis
UBS Core MSCI Japan UCITS ETF hCHF acc
UBS Core MSCI Japan UCITS ETF hEUR dis
UBS Core MSCI Japan UCITS ETF hEUR acc
UBS Core MSCI Japan UCITS ETF hUSD acc
UBS Core MSCI Japan UCITS ETF USD acc
Good to know
Is an equity ETF the same as a stock ETF?
Yes. "Equity" is just another word for "stock," so the two names describe the same kind of fund holding company shares.
Do I receive dividends from an equity ETF?
Often yes. Companies may pay dividends (a share of profits), and the fund either pays them to you or reinvests them, depending on whether it is distributing or accumulating.
Can an equity ETF lose value?
Yes. Share prices rise and fall, so the fund's value can drop, sometimes noticeably in a single year, which is why a long time horizon helps.
Related topics
Finance Hamster provides educational information about ETFs and investing. It is not investment, tax, or legal advice, and not a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Markets carry risk; do your own research or consult a licensed adviser.