ETFs have been on an ultra-high growth trajectory for over a decade now but at least part of that is being fueled by model portfolios. According to a Cerulli Associates report, ETFs are becoming a fundamental part of models. Asset managers and third-party strategist model providers now allocate about 54% to ETFs. 

Despite only 12% of financial adviser assets being held in practices primarily using model portfolios, Cerulli estimates that 24% are "model portfolio targets," reflecting client-specific customizations. BlackRock leads as the largest model provider with $84.3 billion in model assets, followed by Capital Group with $75.4 billion.

ETFs have surpassed mutual fund assets within models, and the trend is expected to continue as more products reach their three- and five-year track records, according to Matt Apkarian of Cerulli. The report also highlights the trend towards customization within models, combining ETFs with separately managed accounts to meet individual client needs.

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