Canada's exchange-traded funds (ETF) industry is preparing for increased competition from new U.S.-listed ETF share class products that could divert Canadian investment dollars south of the border.The U.S.

ETF share class structure, which allowed mutual fund companies to offer lower-cost ETF versions of their existing funds, was previously restricted by a patent held by Vanguard Group.This patent expired in 2023, enabling 104 U.S.mutual fund companies to apply for approval to launch similar products.

Nine companies have already launched ETF share classes, and Canadian ETF Association (CETFA) data shows Canadian investors hold approximately $300 billion in U.S.-listed ETFs.Canadian ETF manufacturers face structural challenges, including higher fees, tax disadvantages, and lack of regulatory reforms compared to U.S.counterparts.CETFA has called for changes to the 'allocation to redeemers' tax framework to improve competitiveness.While U.S.ETFs offer tax advantages and lower fees, Canadian ETFs provide benefits like currency conversion handling and access to local markets.Industry experts note that while U.S.products may pose challenges, Canadian-listed funds still offer advantages in areas like tax efficiency and regulatory clarity.Proposed reforms, including a new Maple Investing Tax-Free Savings Account, aim to address these gaps and support Canadian investors.