Plain-English definitions.

Investing has its own vocabulary. We define the terms that may trip you up.

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What is an ETF? A simple guide for Belgian investors

The most-asked beginner question, answered properly. What an ETF is, how they work, and why they're the easiest entry into investing.

4 min read·   Updated May 2026·  Beginner

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Two paths through the glossary

01

The basics

The terms every investor stumbles over at the start.

Hangmatbeleggen: what is it and how to start?
9 minutes
What is compound interest and why it's important
5 minutes
What are fractional shares?
4 minutes
What are trackers?
4 minutes
What is a broker?
3 minutes
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02

Index explainers

The headline indices, in plain English.

What is the MSCI World index and how to invest in it?
6 minutes
S&P 500 index explained for Belgians
13 minutes
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What else we cover

ETF investing

What ETFs are, how to choose them, and how to hold on for the long run.

66 articles →

Best ETFs

Our pick of the best ETFs by region, theme and asset class.

30 articles →

Taxes

What Belgian and Italian ETF investors owe, and when.

22 articles →

Retirement & FIRE

From pensioensparen to retiring early.

18 articles →

Personal finance

The money basics nobody taught you in school.

21 articles →

Brokers

Reviews of every broker available in Europe.

77 articles →

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