A type of ETF (exchange-traded fund) that is designed to provide exposure (both risk and return) to a certain type or types of bonds. It is perceived as a selection or portfolio of bonds that trades on an exchange in the same fashion as a stock.

It is a type of fixed income ETF and has similarities to a bond mutual fund but comparatively at lower costs for a competitive performance. A holder of a bond ETF is an owner of a respective share in a bond portfolio. However, unlike individual bonds, most bond ETFs don’t have a maturity date.

The main advantages of a bond ETF include diversification, tax efficiency, lower costs, transparency (with daily disclosure), and flexibility as to intraday trading possibility. [For more, see: advantages of bond ETFs].