Jackie Robinson Day Lesson: ETF Returns and Giving

Jackie Robinson Day celebrated in MLB stadiums, players wore #42. ETFs honor causes, like VETZ, PINK, and FLDZ, giving back.

Yesterday, Major League Baseball stadiums across the country celebrated Jackie Robinson Day, honoring the day in 1947 when the Brooklyn Dodgers' legendary player shattered the color barrier in the sport. During Monday's games, all players donned Robinson's iconic number 42, symbolizing courage, perseverance, and resilience in the face of adversity from fans and fellow players. Robinson's impact on the game and society as a whole cannot be overstated, with his legacy continuing to inspire generations.

While Jackie Robinson's contributions to his era and industry are unparalleled, the ETF industry also has its own heroes who strive to make a positive impact on the world. These ETFs focus on important causes and embody Robinson's belief that the impact one has on others is what truly matters.

One such ETF is the Academy Veteran Impact ETF (VETZ), which has been nominated for the best new ESG ETF award at the upcoming etf.com awards event in New York City. This $50 million fund invests in mortgage-backed securities issued to U.S. service members, veterans, and their families, while also donating a portion of its management fee to veteran-related charities.

Another noteworthy ETF is the Simplify Healthcare ETF (PINK), a $134 million fund that not only invests in biotech and gene therapy stocks but also donates 100% of its net profit to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Over the past year, PINK has returned an impressive 17%.

The River North Patriot ETF (FLDZ) may be a smaller fund with $3.5 million in assets, but its mission is significant. FLDZ invests in U.S. large and mid-cap stocks and donates the majority of its sub-advisory fee to the Folds of Honor Foundation, which provides educational scholarships to the families of fallen or disabled military personnel. Despite its charitable focus, FLDZ has returned 16% over the past year.

Jackie Robinson's legacy extends beyond the baseball field, as he excelled in multiple sports during his college years and later made a mark in the business world as the first African American Vice President of a major U.S. corporation. While the ETF industry may not have a figure like Robinson, it continues to honor and recognize individuals who break down barriers and drive innovation in the financial world.

As we celebrate the achievements of these outstanding ETFs and their contributions to society, we are reminded of Jackie Robinson's enduring impact and the importance of using our platforms to make a difference in the lives of others. Congratulations to all the nominees and leaders who embody the spirit of Jackie Robinson in the ETF industry and beyond.