The overall market capitalization of Australian ETFs, spanning ASX and CBOE platforms, has climbed to a record $232.5 billion. This punctuates a stunning 52% increase over the past year, equating to an additional $79.6 billion being pumped into the market. A closer look reveals that this expansion stems from robust net inflows alongside favourable market dynamics.
The month of October witnessed a substantial $3.2 billion in net inflows, accompanied by the advent of four new funds – making it the second-highest month this year following July. Investors showed a particular appetite for international equities, which netted $1.2 billion. Fixed income products followed closely with $974 million in new flows, while Australian equities attracted $833 million.
Furthermore, investments in Australian bonds amounted to $706 million, demonstrating steady interest in fixed-income securities. World development equities also captivated investors, securing $616 million.
Individual performers for the month of October included the Global X Physical Palladium, Betashares Crypto Innovators ETF, and Monochrome Bitcoin ETF, surging 19.3%, 18.8%, and 18.1%, respectively. These products highlight the growing trend in diversifying investments towards distinctive and emerging sectors.
Vanguard emerged as a prominent force in the monthly inflows, with its Australian Shares Index ETF (VAS) climbing by $374 million, alongside its Global Aggregate Bond (Hedged) ETF (VBND), and MSCI Index International Shares ETF (VGS), growing by $223 million and $173 million respectively.
Differing fortunes were observed with the largest outflows affecting the MGOC Magellan Global Fund (Open Class) with $176 million exiting, the iShares FTSE China Large-Cap ETF suffering a $36.6 million reduction as investors reacted to geopolitical and economic concerns, and a drop of $27.7 million in the SPDR S&P/ASX 200 (STW).
At the summit of funds by market cap, VAS leads with $16.8 billion, trailed by VGS with $9.5 billion, and the iShares S&P 500 ETF (IVV) commanding $9.4 billion.
A glance over the year shows Vanguard leading the charges with a $7.29 billion surge in new flows, closely pursued by BetaShares with $6.50 billion. iShares and VanEck recorded $4.96 billion and $4.75 billion, respectively, while GlobalX concluded the list with an influx of $1.23 billion.
This analysis is informed by data originally reported by Patrick Buncsi on November 13, 2024, showcasing the adaptability and growth potential within Australia's ETF market.