Truist Financial Discloses 6.3% Stake in First Trust ETF

The bank’s investment arm holds nearly 887,000 shares with full disposal rights, reflecting a strategic portfolio position.

October 13, 2025

Truist takes a significant position

Truist Financial is now a major holder in the First Trust Exchange-Traded Fund. According to a recent SEC disclosure, the bank—through its investment advisory affiliate—owns 886,905 shares, representing 6.3% of the fund.

This is a passive position, but it’s a meaningful one. Truist has full authority to dispose of the shares, giving its advisory team flexibility to adjust as needed. There’s no voting power attached to the holding, and no indication that the investment is being used to influence management or strategy. It’s a straightforward stake, held in the normal course of business.

The shares are tied to Truist Advisory Services, Inc., a registered investment advisor based in Delaware and operating under the parent company, Truist Financial Corp, out of Charlotte, North Carolina. The filing doesn’t involve any other group or third party, and no subsidiaries were reported as having acquired the position.

Why this matters

First Trust, the issuer of the ETF, is headquartered in Wheaton, Illinois. While the fund’s strategy isn’t covered in the filing, Truist’s ownership level triggers a Schedule 13G disclosure—required when institutions pass the 5% threshold in a public security.

These filings provide clarity on institutional moves and where capital is being allocated. Truist’s stake signals a purposeful investment in this particular fund. For investors, portfolio managers, and market watchers alike, it’s one more data point showing how larger players are positioning across the ETF space.