John Hancock’s CEO Explains the Explosive Growth of Active ETFs

Why It Matters

The convergence of active‑ETF growth and client‑centric AI gives firms a competitive edge, reshaping portfolio construction and driving higher returns for investors.

Key Takeaways

• Active ETFs now represent ~40% of industry inflows.
• Platform maturity and longer track records boost advisor confidence.
• AI will augment, not replace, human decision‑making in asset management.
• John Hancock’s ETF platform exceeds $12 billion with 18 products.
• Client‑centric AI adoption will drive efficiency and better outcomes.

Summary

John Hancock’s chief executive highlighted two converging forces reshaping asset management: the rapid rise of active exchange‑traded funds and the emerging role of artificial intelligence. Active ETFs have surged from obscurity to commanding roughly 40 % of total ETF inflows, driven by maturing platforms, longer track records, and growing advisor comfort.

The CEO cited platform scale—over $12 billion in assets across 18 ETFs—and a global team of 600 professionals as evidence of the firm’s commitment. He emphasized that AI will not replace portfolio managers but will enhance decision‑making, improve efficiency, and deliver better client outcomes when applied responsibly.

Key remarks included, “It’s never going to replace the human being… it will help enhance it,” and a pledge to expand education and advisory support for active‑ETF integration. John Hancock plans to deepen its distribution, bolster its multimanager capabilities, and continue investing in AI‑driven tools.

For investors and advisors, the message is clear: firms that combine robust active‑ETF offerings with client‑focused AI adoption are poised to capture market share, while those lagging may miss out on the next wave of portfolio innovation.

Original Description

While it may not be grabbing as much headline attention these days, the ongoing popularity and adoption of actively managed strategies and active ETFs in particular is undeniable. Kristie Feinberg, CFA, President & CEO, John Hancock Investment Management, shared a bit of her time at Future Proof Citywide with Sumit Roy, Senior ETF Analyst at ETF.com, to chat the active proliferation, impacts of artificial intelligence, and more.

DISCLOSURE

John Hancock is not affiliated with ETF.com or Sumit Roy.

The opinions expressed are those of the presenter at the time of recording and are subject to change as market and other conditions warrant. The subadvisors’ affiliates, employees, and clients may hold or trade the securities mentioned, if any, in this commentary. The information is based on sources believed to be reliable, but does not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of John Hancock Investment Management. No forecasts are guaranteed. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

This material is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be, nor shall it be interpreted or construed as, a recommendation or providing advice, impartial or otherwise. John Hancock Investment Management and our representatives and affiliates may receive compensation derived from the sale of and/or from any investment made in our products and services.

Source: Morningstar. As of 2/28/26, the Manulife John Hancock Investments ETF platform has $12.591 billion in AUM.

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JHS-906582-2026-03-25 04/26