Fidelity Investments, one of the world’s largest and most reputable asset management firms, recently introduced a novel exchange-traded fund (ETF) centered on the burgeoning metaverse trend. The Fidelity Metaverse ETF (FMET) aims to grant investors exposure to a worldwide array of enterprises engaged in developing, producing, distributing, or marketing products and services related to the creation and advancement of the metaverse. But what exactly is the metaverse, and why should investors take notice? Here is a comprehensive overview of the Fidelity Metaverse ETF.
What is the Metaverse?
The term “metaverse” denotes a virtual realm where individuals can interact with one another and digital content in an immersive and lifelike manner. This concept gained prominence through science fiction literature like “Snow Crash” and “Ready Player One” and has garnered increased attention in recent years due to the rapid progression of technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and 5G.
The metaverse is not a solitary platform or application; rather, it is a network of interconnected virtual realms offering diverse experiences and opportunities to users. Some examples of existing or upcoming metaverse platforms include Roblox, Fortnite, Decentraland, Sandbox, and Horizon. The metaverse is anticipated to emerge as a substantial market, reshaping various industries like gaming, entertainment, education, e-commerce, social media, and more.
Why is the Fidelity Metaverse ETF Significant?
The Fidelity Metaverse ETF represents a significant offering for investors looking to tap into the rapidly expanding and innovative metaverse sector. This ETF seeks to mirror the performance of the Fidelity Metaverse Index, designed to reflect the performance of a global spectrum of companies involved in various facets of the metaverse, including those that:
- Develop hardware or software for VR/AR devices, platforms, applications, or content.
- Provide cloud computing, data center, or networking services for the metaverse.
- Create digital assets, tokens, or currencies for the metaverse.
- Operate online platforms or marketplaces for the metaverse.
- Produce or distribute entertainment content for the metaverse.
- Offer education or training services for the metaverse.
- Sell goods or services through the metaverse.
The Fidelity Metaverse ETF presents several advantages for investors, including:
- Diversification: The ETF invests in a broad array of companies across different countries, sectors, and market capitalizations linked to the metaverse, reducing the risk associated with reliance on a single company or market segment.
- Cost-efficiency: With an annual management fee of 0.35%, the ETF boasts a lower cost structure compared to many other thematic ETFs. Additionally, it offers low trading costs and high liquidity due to its listing on Nasdaq.
- Expertise: Leveraging Fidelity’s reputable approach to index design, the ETF benefits from its extensive global network and research capabilities. Fidelity’s seasoned team of analysts and portfolio managers conducts quarterly reviews and rebalancing of the index.
How to Invest in the Fidelity Metaverse ETF?
To invest in the Fidelity Metaverse ETF, individuals must possess a brokerage account permitting ETF trading on Nasdaq. The ETF trades under the ticker symbol FMET and was launched on April 19, 2022. As of September 18, 2022, the ETF had a net asset value (NAV) of $9.695 per share and an accumulated volume of 170,487 shares.
Investors should exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks associated with investing in the Fidelity Metaverse ETF, such as:
- Market risk: The ETF’s performance may be influenced by general market conditions and fluctuations in stock prices.
- Sector risk: Specific factors affecting the metaverse sector, such as technological shifts, regulatory considerations, consumer preferences, and competition, could impact the ETF’s performance.
- Currency risk: Changes in exchange rates between different currencies may affect the ETF’s performance.
- Index risk: Due to tracking errors or fees, the ETF’s performance may not precisely match that of its underlying index.
In Conclusion
The Fidelity Metaverse ETF represents a novel and innovative investment vehicle offering a convenient and cost-effective means for investors to participate in the burgeoning metaverse trend. By tracking a global index of companies involved in various aspects of the metaverse, this ETF provides diversification, cost-efficiency, and access to expertise, making it an attractive option for those seeking involvement in this rapidly growing and transformative sector.