The global exchange-traded fund (ETF) and exchange-traded product (ETP) issuer, WisdomTree, has listed the world’s first European Defence ETF on the London Stock Exchange today.

The WisdomTree Europe Defence UCITS ETF (WDEF) is designed to provide exposure to the performance of European companies involved in the defence industry which includes manufacturers of civil defence equipment, parts or products, defence electronics and space defence equipment.

Following decades of underinvestment, European nations are committed to increasing defence budgets to meet the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation’s (NATO) 2% GDP target, with many already exceeding it. The increase in European defence spending reflects a strategic pivot towards addressing modern threats and ensuring regional security. This shift creates long-term opportunities in areas such as defence manufacturing, technological innovation, and space defence, offering significant growth potential for both established companies and emerging entrants in the industry.

Speaking at the event, Ravinder Azad, Head of UK Sales, WisdomTree said: “With geopolitical risks rising and US support uncertain, European nations are rapidly strengthening their military capabilities and strategic autonomy. Increased defence budgets, technological advancements, and NATO commitments are driving this transformation. To give investors access to this critical theme, we have launched the world’s first ETF dedicated to companies shaping Europe's evolving defence landscape.”

WisdomTree manages $1.5bn across its 14-strong thematic ETF range in Europe.

Visit WisdomTree.eu for more information.