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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 minutes
· Updated June 2026

Browse by topic

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 are fractional shares?
4 minutes
What are trackers?
4 minutes
What is a broker?
3 minutes
What is compound interest and why it's important
5 minutes
02

Index explainers

The headline indices, in plain English.

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

What else we cover

ETF investing

The simplest way to invest for the long term, explained from scratch.

67

Best ETFs

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

32

Brokers

Reviews of every broker available in Belgium.

78

Taxes

What Belgian and Italian ETF investors owe, and when.

22

Retirement & FIRE

From pensioensparen to retiring early.

19

Personal finance

The money basics nobody taught you in school.

24

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