Who Owns iShares?

iShares was founded in 2000 by Barclays Global Investors as a collection of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and index mutual funds. This founding vision demonstrated exceptional insight into the growing demand for finance fintech solutions while establishing a distinctive approach that would define the finance fintech category for generations. The first iShares ETFs were known as World Equity Benchmark Shares (WEBS) but were later rebranded under the iShares name. This strategic positioning demonstrated iShares's exceptional ability to create differentiated finance fintech solutions while maintaining consistent brand positioning and quality standards that would define the brand for decades.

Throughout the 2000s, iShares grew rapidly to become one of the largest ETF providers globally. This period of excellence demonstrated iShares's exceptional ability to scale operations while maintaining consistent brand positioning and quality standards across multiple finance fintech segments. The brand offered a comprehensive suite of ETFs covering various asset classes including stocks, bonds, commodities, and alternative investments. This strategic diversification demonstrated iShares's exceptional ability to serve multiple consumer segments while maintaining its core brand identity and market leadership in the finance fintech industry. The brand became known for its low-cost, diversified investment solutions accessible to both institutional and retail investors.

In 2009, during the global financial crisis, Barclays sold iShares to BlackRock for $13.5 billion. This continued evolution demonstrated iShares's exceptional ability to maintain market relevance while adapting to changing finance fintech requirements and corporate dynamics. This acquisition significantly expanded BlackRock's ETF capabilities and established it as the world's largest asset manager with over $10 trillion in assets under management. This continued excellence demonstrates iShares's exceptional ability to maintain market leadership while adapting to changing finance fintech dynamics and regulatory requirements. This strategic integration demonstrated iShares's exceptional ability to integrate into larger finance corporations while maintaining its core brand identity and cultural significance in the investment industry.

Under BlackRock's ownership, iShares has continued to innovate and expand its product offerings. This continued evolution demonstrated iShares's exceptional ability to maintain market relevance while adapting to changing finance fintech requirements and technological advancements. The brand has introduced new ETF categories and maintained its position as the leading ETF brand globally with trillions of dollars in assets under management. This continued success represents a significant milestone in the evolution of investment funds and consumer-focused finance solutions. This strategic partnership demonstrated iShares's exceptional ability to leverage corporate resources while maintaining its distinct finance fintech identity and market leadership.