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At Fund Forum 2026, BNP Paribas' Robert Van Kerkhoff discussed ETFs market growth, asset managers’ ETF strategies and factors for success.
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Celebrating the 26th anniversary of ETFs in Europe, Robert Van Kerkhoff, Global Head of Institutional Investors Sales and Client Coverage at BNP Paribas’ Securities Services business was interviewed on the European ETF market by Emma Walden, Fund Forum correspondent, at Fund Forum 2026.
Robert first highlighted the exceptional growth of the European ETF market in recent years, noting that European ETFs now comprise more than EUR 3 trillion, boosted by continuous net inflows over the past three years.
A notable shift in the investor base has also emerged. While institutional inflows dominated the early phase, retail investors are now increasingly investing into ETFs, attracted by the products’ liquidity, transparency and low cost.
The growth has been reinforced by the increasing usage of online platforms and investment applications, which have brought more investors and volumes into ETFs.
In Europe, numerous traditional asset managers are entering the ETF market, viewing it not merely as a new product launch but looking beyond that, as a strategic opportunity. Central to their approach is the design of an effective distribution strategy, which includes selecting the appropriate channels to reach investors.
Moreover, the European market offers considerable flexibility regarding fund domiciles, listing options and issuance models. Consequently, asset managers must evaluate every element in the equation to make sure that they will be successful.
The European market is fragmented, with multiple exchanges and distribution channels, each subject to regulatory frameworks which are not fully homogenous. An asset manager considering launching ETFs must fully acknowledge this complexity, which makes regional expertise indispensable for companies operating across Europe.
In this ecosystem, asset managers must choose the appropriate partners—including liquidity providers, index providers, or servicing entities like BNP Paribas’ Securities Services business. This is essential to navigate the complexities of European market and to deliver value throughout the ETF lifecycle.
BNP Paribas offers a comprehensive solution for ETFs. We support issuers across all stages, from issuance and investment management services to fund administration and securities services. Our end-to-end offering equips our clients with the expertise and infrastructure required to thrive in the European ETF landscape.
At BNP Paribas we hold a strongly positive outlook for this segment. We anticipate that its expansion will continue. In terms of retail distribution, digital tools—particularly online platforms and investment applications- have attracted a new generation of users. This digital adoption should keep accelerating the growth of ETFs throughout Europe.
Moreover, we expect continued innovation, especially in the sphere of active ETFs, which should further propel market development.
Overall, the future of ETFs in Europe is bright.
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