YMAR ETF: What Is It? Returns, Expense Ratio, Holdings and Alternative ETFs Explained
The FT Vest International Equity Moderate Buffer ETF - March (YMAR) tracks the MSCI EAFE and uses a defined outcome strategy that cushions part of the downside through options. Its upside cap, dividends and management fee are the key points of comparison with similar buffer ETFs.
SubscribeWhat Is the FT Vest International Equity Moderate Buffer ETF - March?
This is a defined outcome buffer ETF designed to follow the price movement of the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF. It uses options to cushion a set range of losses in the underlying ETF over a defined outcome period, and in exchange places a cap on upside returns.
It suits conservative investors who want exposure to developed-market stocks outside the US while reducing downside volatility to some degree.
The ETF is actively managed by First Trust.
How Do You Invest in the FT Vest International Equity Moderate Buffer ETF - March?
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Tracked Index | MSCI EAFE (linked to the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF) |
| Management Style | Active (options-based defined outcome) |
| Rebalancing Frequency | Once a year (outcome period resets in March) |
| Dividend Frequency | Largely not applicable |
| Total Expense Ratio | 0.90% |
The fund holds FLEX options linked to the price movement of its underlying asset, the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF, and cushions a set range of losses in the underlying ETF during the outcome period. In exchange, a predetermined cap applies to upside returns, and these terms are reset each year based on March.
- Options-based downside buffer applied to developed-market stocks outside the US
- Defined outcome structure combining an upside cap with a downside buffer
FT Vest International Equity Moderate Buffer ETF - March Size and Costs (AUM and Management Fees)
Assets under management (AUM) are $160.8M, and the total expense ratio is 0.90% per year.
If you enter partway through the outcome period, the stated buffer and cap may not apply as written, so it is important to check the remaining buffer and remaining cap.
FT Vest International Equity Moderate Buffer ETF - March Performance and Trends
1-Year Price Performance
Dividend & Yield
52-Week Price RangeThe fund follows the movement of its underlying developed-market stocks, but the options structure tends to dampen the range of price swings. The buffer works in down markets and the cap works in up markets, so its movement differs from that of the underlying asset.
Buffer-type defined outcome ETFs are a category that draws interest alongside demand for downside protection during volatile periods. The cap and buffer levels can change each year depending on the developed-market stock environment and option prices.
FT Vest International Equity Moderate Buffer ETF - March Pros and Cons
Its strength is that it cushions part of the downside and reduces volatility, while the upside cap and a somewhat high fee are seen as drawbacks.
💪 Key Strengths
⚠️ Points to Watch
FT Vest International Equity Moderate Buffer ETF - March Alternative ETFs and Related Products
The IJAN, IAPR, IJUL and IOCT series shown in the table are buffer-type defined outcome ETFs targeting the same developed-market stocks, but their reference months differ, so their outcome periods differ as well. YDEC is the December version of the same issuer's series. BMAR, which is based on US large-cap stocks within the same buffer category, can also be considered as an alternative, and if you simply want international stock exposure, you can consider the underlying asset EFA directly.
Peer Comparison ETFs| Ticker | Name | Price | Change | AUM | Total Expense Ratio | Dividend Yield | 1Y |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 IJUL | Innovator International Developed Power Buffer ETF July | $35.81 | -0.3% | $256.0M | 0.85% | - | +8.9% |
 IJAN | Innovator International Developed Power Buffer ETF January | $38.15 | -0.4% | $225.9M | 0.85% | - | +7.8% |
 EJUL | Innovator Emerging Markets Power Buffer ETF July | $29.84 | -0.1% | $211.9M | 0.89% | - | +2.0% |
 IOCT | Innovator International Developed Power Buffer ETF - October | $37.54 | -0.5% | $196.7M | 0.85% | - | +9.3% |
 IAPR | Innovator International Developed Power Buffer ETF April | $33.21 | -0.3% | $189.9M | 0.85% | - | +9.8% |
Top Holdings| Ticker | Name | Weight | Price | Change | Market Cap | P/E | Dividend Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBOE | Cboe Global Markets Inc | 3.16% | $340.42 | +3.9% | $35.6B | 26.5 | 0.92% |
FT Vest International Equity Moderate Buffer ETF - March Investor Checkpoints
Here are the points to review before investing in YMAR. Buffer ETFs work differently from ordinary index ETFs, so it is important to first understand the structure of the cap, buffer and outcome period.
| Checkpoint | What to Check | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| 🛡️ Buffer Range | Confirm the range in which the downside buffer applies | To be confirmed |
| 📈 Upside Cap | Confirm the level at which upside returns are limited | To be confirmed |
| 📅 Outcome Period | Remaining buffer and cap at the time of entry | To be confirmed |
| 💵 Expense Ratio | Fee level resulting from the options structure | Somewhat high |
The upside cap limits returns in a strong market, and the buffer is not unlimited protection but cushions only a set range. Buying partway through the outcome period or selling before the period ends can produce a risk profile different from the one intended.
This is a defined outcome ETF suited to investors who want exposure to developed-market stocks outside the US while reducing some of the downside volatility. It is recommended to use it only after fully understanding the structure of the cap, buffer and outcome period.
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 25, 2026.
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