Calamos Nasdaq Autocallable Income ETF

CAIQ

Market cap $80.3M

The new year may be in full swing, but many advisors and investors are wondering if the winners of 2025 are going to keep pace in 2026. One investment strategy that emerged as a particular victor in 2025 was the autocallable income ETF.

Demand from advisors and investors alike for equity income strategies isn't necessarily a new phenomenon. These strategies have long filled an important niche across a range of portfolio needs.

The Calamos Nasdaq Autocallable Income ETF (CAIQ) offers high monthly income via a structured derivatives strategy linked to the Nasdaq-100 Volatility Advantage Autocallable Index. CAIQ and CAIE share similar structures, but CAIE's lower principal and coupon barriers (60% vs. CAIQ's 70%) provide greater downside protection and may be more appealing. Both CAIQ and CAIE are rated Buy for alternative income exposure, but investors should monitor risks tied to index thresholds and limited performance history.

With traditional yield susceptible to rate cuts and equities volatile, many investors seek alternative sources for stable, higher, predictable income. On November 20, 2025, Calamos Investments launched the Calamos Nasdaq Autocallable Income ETF (CAIQ) to address this need.