Definition
An index fund aims to track an index. It can live inside an ETF (traded on exchange) or a traditional mutual fund (often priced once daily at net asset value).
ETFs usually offer intraday trading and frequent holdings disclosure; mutual funds vary by provider and region. The economic exposure can be similar when the index matches.
Why it matters
Choosing between wrappers is often operational — trading style, account type, tax rules — more than “which is smarter.”
How Cognitor helps you research
Cognitor’s marketing education centers on US-listed ETFs, a layer many global portfolios reference — whether you also use mutual funds elsewhere.