What Is The Difference Between An ETF And A Mutual Fund? 
In Canada , an EFT -LRB- Exchange Traded Fund -RRB- and a Mutual Fund are similar , but there are differences . This is an overview only . Mutual funds are actively traded by investment managers . They set a strategy and buy and sell stocks and more to achieve a return . An EFT reflects the performance of an index the S&P 500 or the S&P / TSX Composite for example . Note : There are some mutual funds and segregated funds -LRB- variable annuities -RRB- that hold EFTs as investments . If you have further questions , or if you feel that I could be of assistance , please do not hesitate to contact me . Mutual funds are often used as part of a retirement plan . If you would like to work with a local Retirement Planner , you could start with a Google search . For example , if you search for : retirement planner Halifax or retirement planning Halifax , my name , along with several others , will come up . You can use the same method to find Retirement Planners in your community . 