Global X hires thematic ETFs head from ProShares
Thematic investing is on the rise. At the end of June 2022, there were 256 thematic ETFs traded in the U.S. markets, marking a 73% increase from the beginning of 2021.
Global X ETFs has appointed Scott Helfstein as Head of Thematic Solutions to bolster the ETF lineup which looks beyond traditional geographic or sector exposures, targeting companies poised to benefit from structural shifts in disruptive technology, people, and demographics, and adaptations to the physical environment.
The New York-based provider of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) joins Global X ETFs from ETF issuer ProShares, where he was Executive Director of Thematic Investing.
At ProShares, he was responsible for overseeing the firm’s line-up of thematic ETFs. Previously, Dr. Helfstein held senior-level roles at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management and BNY Mellon Investment Management, covering market strategy, equity portfolio solutions, thematic investing, tactical market communications, and global macro trends.
Paradigm-shifting themes
Brian Diessner, Head of Sales at Global X, said: “Global X’s Thematic Growth ETFs deliver access to a broad set of companies around the world with pure-play exposure to paradigm-shifting themes that reflect long-term, structural trends across geographies and sectors. Dr. Helfstein has an impressive background in thematic investing, with experience across product development, research, and strategy, and we look forward to leveraging his expertise to drive innovation for Global X’s clients.”
“Between the convergence of several disruptive technologies, new generations of consumers with unique preferences, and an evolving relationship with the physical environment, it’s clear that we’re living through a cycle of accelerating change. Global X is a pioneer in thematic investing, with top-notch product development and research capabilities, and this is an exciting time to be joining such a forward-thinking firm as Head of Thematic Solutions.”
Thematic investing is on the rise. At the end of June 2022, there were 256 thematic ETFs traded in the U.S. markets, marking a 73% increase from the beginning of 2021.
Global X, founded in 2008, already has more than 30 targeted products in the space representing around $15 billion in assets under management (AUM).
Global X is a member of Mirae Asset Financial Group, which has an extensive global ETF platform ranging across the U.S., Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Europe, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam with over $80 billion in assets under management.
