As of 2025, the amount of ETFs that exist on the US stock exchanges has surpassed the amount of stocks. Honestly, this surprised me and I didn't realize it was that close until the articles and images started coming up.
ETFs have evolved passed simplicity in my opinion, you used to be able to refer to them as the "safer" option to invest in, but since so many companies are releasing new ETF products, it's even more complex and in some cases way less safe than even buying stocks. When you can create a Covered Call product on any individual company with leverage, or 2x short Tesla, it's actually getting harder for many beginners to get correct information. If people are willing to pay for products, companies will provide them and unfortunately many are taking advantage of that.
[https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-25/us-etfs-eclipse-total-number-of-stocks-in-paradox-of-choice-for-investors](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-25/us-etfs-eclipse-total-number-of-stocks-in-paradox-of-choice-for-investors)
