Donoghue Forlines Launches DF Tactical 30 ETF

The fund shifts between top-performing U.S. equities and Treasuries based on trend signals to manage downside risk.

July 17, 2025

DFTT blends equity exposure with tactical downside protection

Donoghue Forlines just rolled out the DF Tactical 30 ETF (DFTT), a new fund designed to help investors pursue long-term capital growth while managing risk in real time. Listed on NYSE Arca, the fund tracks an index that doesn’t just sit still—it reacts. The DF Risk-Managed Tactical Top 30 Index rotates into the 30 strongest-trending stocks among the top 100 U.S. large-cap names, rebalancing every quarter to stay current with market direction.

This isn’t a static equity fund. The model powering the ETF leans on exponential moving averages to capture momentum. When the signals are strong, it holds equities. But when market trends start to break down, it doesn’t hesitate. The fund can shift entirely into short-term Treasuries or Treasury ETFs, using predefined signals to manage downside exposure. These tactical overlays are built to respond fast—no guesswork, no discretionary calls.

Cost structure designed for transparency

Investors using this fund aren’t paying sales charges or redemption fees. The total annual cost comes to 0.70%, including a 0.69% management fee. For a $10,000 investment, estimated expenses work out to:

$72 in the first year

$224 over three years

These numbers assume a 5% annual return. It’s a straightforward fee structure, but like all funds that adjust positions regularly, there could be additional trading costs.

Key risks and trading mechanics

DFTT’s concentrated portfolio—just 30 names—means investors are getting more focused exposure than in traditional equity ETFs. That can lead to sharper movements, both up and down. The fund is also subject to tracking risk and the possibility that its signals don’t always line up with broader market behavior. And like other ETFs, pricing can diverge from NAV during volatile sessions.

Shares are available throughout the trading day, just like a stock. While most investors will buy and sell on the secondary market, only authorized participants can transact directly with the fund in large blocks of 10,000 shares. That structure helps maintain liquidity, but during fast-moving markets, spreads and price deviations may widen.

Who’s managing the fund?

The portfolio is managed by Donoghue Forlines’ investment leadership: John Forlines, Jeffrey Thompson, Richard Molari, and Nicholas Lobley. Their process is built on quantitative models and systematic oversight—designed to reduce noise and keep decisions grounded in data. As of March 31, 2025, the firm oversaw roughly $717.5 million in assets, with $266 million across discretionary or sub-advised mandates.

A rules-based solution for shifting markets

The DF Tactical 30 ETF brings a clear and measured approach to trend-following and capital protection. For investors looking to stay aligned with market momentum while minimizing exposure during downturns, it offers a structure that adapts automatically. No second-guessing. No waiting on discretionary calls. Just a clear signal-based process—built to help investors stay responsive in a constantly shifting market.