Asset Manager DWS Planned New Tokenised ETF Products
The firm is expanding its Xtrackers line to meet demand, reflecting a broader trend of managers eyeing tokenised fund options.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Investing
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Frankfurt-based asset manager DWS has announced plans to introduce tokenised products across its Xtrackers fund range as it moves beyond initial development pilots. This shift occurs as a survey of industry leaders shows widespread interest in tokenisation among asset managers.
Why it matters
The firm intends to align its product offerings with emerging investor demand while leveraging the economies of scale that define the current ETF market. These developments highlight a transition toward digital assets, even as analysts suggest their growth relative to traditional products may remain muted in the short term.
A survey of 77 asset managers found that 88% consider offering tokenised versions of ETFs likely, with 36% labeling the move as very likely. While these firms see potential for future growth, experts project that tokenised assets will not grow significantly relative to traditional products over the next two to four years.
The players
DWS
A Frankfurt-based asset manager that provides various investment products and is now developing tokenised versions of its funds.
The details
DWS is currently scaling its operations beyond initial product pilots to bring tokenised Xtrackers to market. The firm maintains a strategy of utilizing portfolio managers for active product management rather than relying on automated systems. This reflects a broader industry expectation where 48% of surveyed managers identify active ETFs as a primary future catalyst for market growth.
Timeline
Tokenised assets are not expected to see significant growth relative to traditional products over the next two to four years.
The European ETF market is projected to grow during the next five to 10 years.
Money Landscape
This move mirrors the industry consensus that the ETF market will see continued expansion over the next decade. It follows the documented trend of ETF market concentration among large issuers, with half of surveyed managers expecting this dominance to persist.
Investors may soon see a wider range of tokenised fund products available for consideration in their broader portfolios. As with any investment, consult a qualified financial professional to determine if these new product types align with your risk tolerance and long-term financial strategy.
The takeaway
While tokenisation is gaining traction among major managers, it is not expected to be a dominant market force for several years. Keep an eye on how these digital product shifts may eventually offer new ways to access diversified fund ranges as the market evolves.
Further reading
For more on how modern financial trends are reshaping portfolio options, visit the Investing section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Funds Europe.
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