First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund

GRID

Market cap $3.85B

Richard P Slaughter & Associates Inc. disclosed a new position in First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund (GRID 1.68%), acquiring shares estimated at ~$7.3 million, according to its October 9, 2025, SEC filing.

Designed to provide broad exposure to the Utilities - Infrastructure segment of the equity market, the First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure ETF (GRID) is a passively managed exchange traded fund launched on November 16, 2009.

For investors looking for income through a multi-asset class approach, it might seem sensible to max out the dividend yield within the equity allocation. Yield-focused equity strategies may introduce regional and sector concentrations that can influence returns. Given the relatively attractive yields available in other asset classes, we think it makes more sense to design 'core-like' equity exposure within multi-asset income solutions.

While market headlines often fixate on the dramatic swings of tech sector giants, a different kind of investment vehicle has been quietly attracting a surge of strategic interest. The First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund NASDAQ: GRID, a specialized fund focused on a seemingly routine sector, is exhibiting market behavior typically reserved for high-growth stocks.

I rate GRID a strong buy due to its direct focus on smart grid solutions, which are central to the modernization of global energy infrastructure. GRID offers diversified exposure to leading companies in automation and energy management, benefiting from massive government-backed modernization programs worldwide. The smart grid industry is projected to grow at a 16.9% CAGR, far outpacing broader infrastructure, supporting GRID's superior long-term performance potential.

Tesla Inc.'s TSLA new $4.3 billion battery agreement with South Korea's LG Energy Solution is a sweeping gesture toward reshoring battery making.

Launched on 11/16/2009, the First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure ETF (GRID) is a passively managed exchange traded fund designed to provide a broad exposure to the Utilities - Infrastructure segment of the equity market.

Top ETFs like ITA, SOCL, GRID, XLC and XLI soared in 1H25 and are displaying signals for a strong 2H rally.

I reiterate my buy rating on GRID, citing strong performance, sector positioning, and European exposure, as key drivers for further gains in 2025. GRID's portfolio is diversified across large, mid, and small caps, with a focus on Industrials and Utilities, and benefits from international infrastructure trends. Technical momentum is robust, with shares rebounding to all-time highs; the 200-day moving average signals bullish control, despite near-term overbought conditions.

The First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure ETF (GRID) was launched on 11/16/2009, and is a passively managed exchange traded fund designed to offer broad exposure to the Utilities - Infrastructure segment of the equity market.