Towards New Strategies for Investing: Insights on Sustainable Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)

Nini Johana Marín-Rodríguez (), Juan David González-Ruíz and Sergio Botero
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Nini Johana Marín-Rodríguez: Grupo de Investigación en Ingeniería Financiera GINIF, Programa de Ingeniería Financiera, Facultad de Ingenierías, Universidad de Medellín, Medellín 050026, Colombia
Juan David González-Ruíz: Grupo de Investigación en Finanzas y Sostenibilidad, Departamento de Economía, Facultad de Ciencias Humanas y Económicas, Universidad Nacional de Colombia—Sede Medellín, Medellín 050034, Colombia
Sergio Botero: Departamento de Ingeniería de la Organización, Facultad de Minas, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Medellín, Medellín 050034, Colombia

World, 2025, vol. 6, issue 1, 1-27

Abstract: As investors increasingly incorporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into their decision-making, sustainable Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) have gained prominence in both investment portfolios and financial research. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the Sustainable ETF research landscape by utilizing scientometric and bibliometric methods with tools such as VOSviewer, Bibliometrix, and CiteSpace. Drawing from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, the study identifies key thematic areas, influential authors, and emerging trends. The findings highlight the conceptual evolution of Green ETFs, from early definitions focused on ESG-aligned investments to more complex instruments incorporating diversified screening criteria and advanced technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence. Practical challenges such as regulatory inconsistencies, high implementation costs, and limited investor education are underscored as critical barriers to broader adoption. Future trends reveal the growing role of blockchain technology for ESG verification, crisis-specific ETF models, and the development of more inclusive screening strategies. Strategically, Green ETFs demonstrate resilience during market volatility and support sustainability-driven investment frameworks. The study provides valuable insights for investors, policymakers, and researchers, emphasizing Green ETFs’ role in driving sustainable finance and offering actionable guidance for optimizing ESG investment strategies.

Keywords: sustainable investments; exchange-traded funds (ETFs); bibliometric analysis; scientometric analysis; sustainable finance; Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: G15 G17 G18 L21 L22 L25 L26 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 R51 R52 R58 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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