Can ETFs be actively managed?

Active ETFs are real and increasingly common. Instead of tracking an index, an active ETF's manager selects and adjusts holdings to pursue the fund's objective. The ETF still trades intraday like any other ETF. (sec.gov)

Compared with index ETFs, active ETFs may have higher fees and more performance dispersion because results depend on the manager's decisions. Some active ETFs also disclose holdings with a delay or in different formats than traditional index ETFs.

If you're evaluating an active ETF, look at the investment process, the manager's track record (where available), turnover, fees, and how the ETF has behaved in different market conditions. The wrapper is familiar, but the strategy can be very different.