- As of Nov 4, 2026, 32 buffer ETFs are dual directional, which gain when the index falls a little as well as when it rises, among 431 single-period funds.
In plain words
A dual directional buffer ETF can gain when the index rises and also when it falls modestly, up to a stated limit. Within that range, a small fall shows up as a small gain.
ETFIQ finds 32 dual funds among 431 single-period buffer funds. Past the stated limit the fund absorbs losses as a standard buffer does, and a larger fall can give a loss. The cap on gains is usually lower than in a standard buffer. The rule applies over the full period; ETFIQ shows cap and buffer left today with the issuer’s terms.
Questions
- How can a fund gain when the index falls?
Its options pay out on small falls up to a limit.
- Is the gain unlimited?
No. It is capped, as in other buffer funds.
- How many dual funds are there?
32 as of Nov 4, 2026.