If an ETF experiences a decline in its market price, who bears the risk?

When an ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund) experiences a decline in its market price, it is the client purchasing the ETF who bears the risk. This is because the client, as the investor, holds the ETF shares in their portfolio. If the value of those shares decreases, the client faces potential losses on their investment.

In the trading of ETFs, the investor's return is directly tied to the performance of the underlying assets held within the fund. Therefore, when the market price of an ETF falls, it reflects a decrease in the value of the assets, which directly impacts the client's investment. The financial dynamics of ETFs mean that ownership and associated risks lie with the investors rather than the firms involved in the creation or sale of the ETF.