ETF Offers New Take On Online Interaction

Today WisdomTree rolled out an ETF that takes a new angle on companies that rely on web-based transactions and online interactions. The WisdomTree Modern Tech Platforms Fund (PLAT) targets companies that generate revenue through the operation of technology platforms or digital marketplaces.

PLAT comes with an expense ratio of 0.45% and lists on the NYSE Arca.

Methodology

The fund targets U.S.- and European-listed securities, and takes into account each company’s business model, customer/participant relationship and revenue source. The types of platforms that can fall under the index’s rubric include payment, social networking, gaming, communication, content and development, the prospectus says.

According to the document, a modern platform business is a “multi-sided business model focused on creating value by facilitating interactions between two or more interdependent groups through technology.”

Companies eligible for inclusion must have at least $2 billion in market capitalization and meet liquidity and trading requirements. Although companies must be listed on a U.S. or European exchange, they can be domiciled anywhere.

The index is rebalanced annually and components are equally weighted, the prospectus says. It also notes that as of the beginning of May, the index’s largest sectors were communication services, consumer discretionary, financial and information technology.

Contact Heather Bell at [email protected]