ARKT ETF Explained: A Buffered Way to Invest in ARKK with Defined Risk
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1. What Is the ARK DIET Q4 Buffer ETF (ARKT)?
The ARK DIET Q4 Buffer ETF (ARKT) is a U.S.-listed exchange-traded fund designed to provide structured exposure to the ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK). Instead of fully following ARKK’s price movements, ARKT uses an options-based strategy to reshape how gains and losses are experienced over a defined outcome period, typically one year. This approach is intended for investors who want exposure to disruptive innovation themes while managing downside risk more carefully. ARKT references the net asset value (NAV) of ARKK and applies predefined participation rules to returns rather than directly holding ARKK shares.
2. How ARKT Limits Downside Risk
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A key feature of ARKT is its partial downside participation. During the outcome period, ARKT is designed to absorb only 50% of any decline in ARKK’s NAV. For example, if ARKK declines by 10%, ARKT would be expected to decline by approximately 5%, before fees and other factors. This buffer does not eliminate losses entirely, but it can significantly reduce the impact of large market downturns. Because ARKK is known for volatility, this downside structure may appeal to investors who want innovation exposure without fully accepting ARKK’s drawdowns.
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3. Hurdle Rate and Upside Participation Explained
ARKT also places limits on upside performance. The ETF has a 5% hurdle rate, meaning ARKT does not generate returns when ARKK’s NAV increases between 0% and 5% over the outcome period. Once ARKK’s return exceeds this threshold, ARKT participates in additional gains at a rate of approximately 63.15%. This structure allows ARKT to capture a portion of strong positive performance while giving up unlimited upside. As a result, ARKT is not designed to outperform ARKK in strong bull markets but instead aims to provide a more controlled risk-return profile.
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4. Fees, Structure, and Investor Considerations
The investment adviser for ARKT has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee related to investments in affiliated funds, and this fee waiver is expected to remain in place for at least one year unless changed with approval from the Board of Trustees. While this arrangement may help reduce overall costs, ARKT remains an outcome-oriented ETF, meaning results depend on holding the fund for the full outcome period. ARKT may be suitable for investors seeking exposure to ARKK’s innovation theme with defined risk parameters, and it is generally best viewed as a strategic or tactical allocation rather than a long-term replacement for traditional equity ETFs.
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*The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only. All investment decisions and results are solely the responsibility of the investor.

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