Goldman Sachs is exploring strategic options, including a potential sale, for its ETF Accelerator platform, which assists institutional clients in launching exchange-traded funds.
Goldman Sachs is reportedly exploring strategic options for its ETF Accelerator platform, which could include a potential sale. The platform, launched in 2023, is designed to help institutional clients launch their own exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This move comes as part of a broader review of the platform's long-term strategic fit within the bank's operations. According to sources familiar with the matter, the platform is separate from Goldman Sachs' own ETF products, which are managed by its asset management division. The potential sale was first reported by Bloomberg News and has been confirmed by multiple sources, including Citywire.
The ETF Accelerator has facilitated the launch of 10 ETFs for four clients, including Brandes Investment Partners and GMO, the investment firm founded by Jeremy Grantham. Despite this, the platform's performance is modest compared to the industry, which saw a record 600 ETFs launched in 2024 alone. Analysts suggest that Goldman may have misjudged the demand for its services, as competitors like Tidal Financial Group and Alpha Architect have found greater success in the market.
Goldman Sachs spokesperson Nick Carcaterra stated that the bank is assessing the best long-term options for the platform and emphasized that no decision has been made yet. The bank remains committed to updating stakeholders as the situation develops. The exploration of options for the ETF Accelerator reflects a strategic reassessment by Goldman Sachs as it seeks to optimize its offerings and align them with market demands.
MetLife Investment Management is set to acquire PineBridge Investments for up to $1.2 billion, expanding its global asset management footprint.
Prosus NV is set to acquire Despegar.com, Latin America's leading online travel agency, for $1.7 billion. The acquisition aims to enhance Prosus's presence in the Latin American market, leveraging Despegar's established platform and Prosus's technological expertise.
Nordstrom is set to be taken private in a $6.25 billion deal by its founding family and Mexican retailer El Puerto de Liverpool, marking a significant shift in the company's ownership structure.
News Corp has agreed to sell its Australian cable TV unit Foxtel to DAZN for $2.1 billion, marking a strategic shift towards publishing and digital real estate.
Equinor has successfully increased its stake in Danish energy company Ørsted to 10%, following its initial announcement in October. The acquisition was completed after receiving necessary regulatory approvals.
L'Oreal has announced the acquisition of Gowoonsesang Cosmetics, including the popular South Korean skincare brand Dr.G, from Swiss retailer Migros, marking a significant expansion in the K-Beauty market.
Aviva Plc has agreed to acquire Direct Line Insurance Group Plc for £3.7 billion ($4.65 billion), a move that will establish the largest motor insurer in the UK.
As 2024 comes to a close, market analysts are predicting a mixed outlook for 2025, with potential gains in large-cap stocks and continued volatility in small-cap sectors. Key factors include interest rate decisions, geopolitical tensions, and technological advancements.
Party City, a leading retailer in the party supplies industry, has filed for bankruptcy and announced the closure of all its stores, marking the end of nearly 40 years in business.
Honda and Nissan have announced plans to merge by 2026, creating the world's third-largest automaker. The merger aims to enhance competitiveness in the electric vehicle market and address financial challenges.