An ETF White Label Platform enables an ETF Sponsor to launch an ETF without incurring the high cost of building and running a Trust. ETF Architect runs all aspects of running an ETF and enables its clients to focus on distribution and running their strategy.

The high-level services provided by ETF white labels can be broken into three core components:

1. Legal/Regulatory/Compliance
2. Portfolio Management
3. Marketing/Distribution

ETF Architect offers #1/#2 because we believe #3 should be flexible and open architecture and bank custody platforms offer #1. There are several other white labels that offer #1, #2, and #3 in one package.

We bring a best-in-class trading and execution team as part of our service offering. There is no incremental need to hire trading personnel or outsource trading to a third party. Most importantly, ETF Architect prides itself in high-quality trading operations, thereby ensuring your shareholders are afforded a fiduciary level of care in the execution of its duties.

Both options are available.

ETF Architect provides a single, clean invoice on one page. We include all accounting, billing, and invoice payments as part of our low, fixed fee. You enter into a single contract.

Yes. ETF Architect works with all three listing exchanges (NYSE, NASDAQ, CBOE)

All fund sponsors will need EO/DO insurance and have to cover certain variable costs. We seek to keep these costs as low as possible and bill them passthrough (i.e., no markup).

Our platform can support any fund type with the appropriate partner. Each strategy type is evaluated on a standalone basis (e.g., equities, fixed income, futures, etc.).

We do not seek to be the largest platform or the platform with the most funds. We grow slowly and selectively, opting to partner with high-integrity firms with a demonstrable chance of success. At a minimum, we expect partners to possess $500k in operating capital, $5M of launch capital for the ETF on Day 1, and a reasonable roadmap to $50M in fund AUM.

Pricing is developed on a case-by-case basis.

We launch a new ETF via three key workstreams: SEC approval, Board approval, and internal compliance program development. Launch times can vary widely based on the Sponsor’s registration status, ability to iterate on board materials, and desired launch date. A launch can occur as quickly as 90 days.

Launch costs are incurred and passed on without markup to you. We rely on select vendors curated over many years to ensure the lowest costs possible.

Sponsors must be willing to register with the SEC as a Sub-Adviser, or if an index provider, establish a robust compliance program subject to Board approval. While anyone can start an ETF, we screen candidates for a commitment to compliance and a robust, viable business plan.

For normal people, yes. For combat Marines, no.

Yes. Mutual fund conversions are becoming increasingly common. Additional costs are required to ensure a smooth conversion; however, the process itself is common.

Yes. We can (and have) converted hedge funds into ETFs. The analysis will be conducted to confirm eligibility and a workplan for conversion. Additional costs apply.

This is possible; however, it is the most difficult of the three conversions to undertake. The analysis will be conducted to evaluate conversion potential. Additional costs apply.

Empirical Finance, LLC (“Empirical”) is a holding company that has 100% ownership of ETF Architect (Empowered Funds, LLC) and Alpha Architect (Alpha Architect, LLC). ETF Architect is focused on providing advisory services to ETFs; Alpha Architect is focused on intellectual property development and managing SMAs.

Wesley R. Gray (majority owner), John “Jack” Vogel, Patrick Cleary, Ryan Kirlin, and Dave Babulak are equity owners of Empirical.