QSPT ETF: What Is It? Returns, Expense Ratio, Holdings, and Alternative ETFs
The FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF September is a buffer product that tracks Nasdaq-100 gains up to a cap while cushioning part of the losses. The buffer and cap structure, the fees, and the market outlook are the key points to check, comparison with other buffer ETFs is the main selection criterion, and the trading ticker is QSPT.
SubscribeWhat Is the FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF September?
This is a defined outcome buffer ETF linked to the Nasdaq-100 Index. It cushions an initial set range of losses over the outcome period and limits gains to a predetermined cap. The outcome period resets in September.
It suits conservative investors who want to keep Nasdaq-100 exposure while reducing volatility through a set range of downside protection.
It is a passively managed (index-tracking) ETF operated by First Trust.
How Does the FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF September Invest?
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Tracked Index | Nasdaq-100 (defined outcome) |
| Management Style | Passive (options buffer) |
| Rebalancing Frequency | Once a year (outcome period reset) |
| Dividend Frequency | Irregular |
| Total Expense Ratio | 0.90% |
Using options based on an ETF that tracks the Nasdaq-100, the fund is designed to cushion an initial set range of losses over an outcome period of about one year starting in September, while participating in gains up to a predetermined cap. When the outcome period ends, it resets with a new buffer and cap.
- A defined outcome structure that cushions part of the downside
- A buffer and cap that are renewed every outcome period
FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF September Size and Costs (AUM and Management Fee)
Assets under management (AUM) are about $731.6M, and the total expense ratio is 0.90% per year.
Unlike a standard Nasdaq-100 ETF, it cushions part of the downside but caps the upside, and if you buy in the middle of an outcome period, the remaining buffer and cap may differ.
FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF September Performance and Trends
1-Year Price Performance
Dividend & Yield
52-Week Price RangeA buffer ETF follows the movement of the underlying Nasdaq-100, but its range of fluctuation is adjusted by the buffer and cap structure. In falling markets the buffer tends to reduce losses, but in strong rallies the cap may prevent it from capturing the full index gain.
When market uncertainty rises, interest in buffer ETFs tends to grow on demand for loss protection, while in bull markets money that prioritizes upside participation sometimes shifts to standard Nasdaq-100 ETFs.
FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF September Pros and Cons
Its strength is that it cushions part of the downside and reduces volatility, while the capped upside, dependence on the outcome period, and the fee burden are its drawbacks.
💪 Key Strengths
⚠️ Points to Watch
FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF September Alternative and Related ETFs
BUFR, BUFD, and BUFQ shown in the table are diversified products that bundle several buffer ETFs like a ladder, and PJAN is a buffer ETF with a different outcome period. To spread outcome periods across Nasdaq buffers with different start months, you can also compare QJUN (June start), GAUG (August start), and the buffered asset allocation fund BALT. These differ in underlying index, buffer size, and start month, so it is best to choose according to your investment goals.
Peer Comparison ETFs| Ticker | Name | Price | Change | AUM | Total Expense Ratio | Dividend Yield | 1Y |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 BUFR | FT Vest Laddered Buffer ETF | $37.82 | -0.1% | $11.0B | 0.95% | - | +11.8% |
 SFLR | Innovator Equity Managed Floor ETF | $39.46 | -0.6% | $2.3B | 0.89% | 0.24% | +7.4% |
 BUFD | FT Vest Laddered Deep Buffer ETF | $30.62 | -0.1% | $2.2B | 0.95% | - | +9.7% |
 BUFQ | FT Vest Laddered Nasdaq Buffer ETF | $40.05 | -1.0% | $1.7B | 1.00% | - | +12.8% |
 FJAN | FT Vest U.S. Equity Buffer ETF - January | $57.06 | -0.0% | $1.5B | 0.85% | - | +12.4% |
Top Holdings| Ticker | Name | Weight | Price | Change | Market Cap | P/E | Dividend Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBOE | Cboe Global Markets Inc | 3.09% | $314.25 | -1.9% | $32.8B | 24.5 | 1% |
FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF September Investor Checkpoints
Here are the points to review before investing in QSPT. As a buffer ETF, it is important to check in advance the buffer size, the cap, the outcome period, the fee level, and the remaining terms if you buy mid-period.
| Checkpoint | What to Check | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| 💵 Expense Ratio | Cumulative impact of options-based management fees | Somewhat high |
| 🛡️ Buffer Size | Check the range of losses cushioned | Set range cushioned |
| 🔝 Cap | Check the upside limit you can participate in | Cap applies |
| 📅 Outcome Period | Check the remaining terms if buying mid-period | Period dependent |
Because gains are capped, the fund cannot capture the full Nasdaq-100 rally in bull markets, and buying mid-period may change the buffer and cap terms. The buffer applies only up to a set range, and declines beyond that translate into losses.
This buffer ETF suits conservative investors who want to keep Nasdaq-100 exposure while reducing volatility through a set range of downside protection. If you prioritize upside participation, a standard Nasdaq-100 ETF may be the better option, and if you prioritize downside protection, QSPT may be the alternative.
SubscribeDisclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. All investment responsibility lies with the investor.
This article reflects information as of June 4, 2026.
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