3 Best US Bank ETFs for Canadian Investors (June 2026)
The best U.S. bank ETFs for Canadians include ZBK.TO (~0.61% MER), HEB.TO (~0.45%), and HMAX.TO (~0.65%). These ETFs provide exposure to American financial institutions, offering diversification beyond Canadian banks, but with added risks from currency fluctuations, economic cycles, and sector concentration.
U.S. bank ETFs are designed for Canadian investors seeking exposure to large American financial institutions, including major banks, investment firms, and financial services companies. ETFs like ZBK.TO, HEB.TO, and HMAX.TO provide access to the U.S. banking sector, which is more diversified than Canada’s and includes global leaders in finance.
The key advantage of U.S. bank ETFs is sector diversification beyond Canadian banks, with exposure to areas like investment banking, capital markets, and regional banks. However, these ETFs are sensitive to economic cycles, interest rates, and currency fluctuations.
In this guide, we break down the best U.S. bank ETFs for Canadian investors, comparing yield, diversification, fees, and risk so you can choose the right ETF for your TFSA, RRSP, or sector-focused portfolio.
At a Glance: Quick Comparison
Side-by-side snapshot of fees, yield, and returns. Data updates daily.
| ETF | MER | AUM | Yield | YTD | 1Y |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Top ZBK.TO BMO Equal Weight US Banks Index ETF | — | $644M | 1.81% | +10.96% | +39.75% |
HEB.TO Hamilton Canadian Bank Equal-Weight Index ETF | — | $1.3B | 2.83% | +27.35% | +68.15% |
HMAX.TO Hamilton Canadian Financials YIELD MAXIMIZER ETF | — | $2.4B | 11.54% | +11.12% | +39.17% |
What Is an ETF?
A U.S. bank ETF for Canadians is an exchange-traded fund that provides exposure to American banking and financial institutions while being accessible through Canadian or U.S. markets. These ETFs allow investors to diversify beyond Canadian banks and access a broader financial system.
For example, ZBK.TO (~0.61% MER) offers exposure to large U.S. banks, while HEB.TO (~0.45% MER) provides equal-weight exposure to major U.S. financial institutions. HMAX.TO (~0.65% MER) enhances income through a covered call strategy on financial stocks, while RBNK (U.S.-listed) tracks a diversified U.S. bank index.
U.S. bank ETFs are commonly used in TFSAs and RRSPs for diversification and income. Investors should consider currency exposure, sector concentration, and economic sensitivity when investing in this space.
The 3 Best ETFs: Ranked & Reviewed
Detailed breakdown of each pick with live data.
BMO Equal Weight US Banks Index ETF
$47.87
+10.96% YTD
Returns
YTD
+10.96%
1Y
+39.75%
3Y
+32.06%
5Y
+10.39%
Hamilton Canadian Bank Equal-Weight Index ETF
$34.88
+27.35% YTD
HEB is designed to track the returns of the Solactive Equal Weight Canada Banks Index, net of fees and expenses. HEB rebalances semi-annually to equal-weight.
Returns
YTD
+27.35%
1Y
+68.15%
3Y
+35.45%
5Y
—
Hamilton Canadian Financials YIELD MAXIMIZER ETF
$18.09
+11.12% YTD
HMAX is designed for attractive monthly income, while providing exposure to a market cap-weighted portfolio of Canadian financial services stocks. To reduce volatility and augment dividend income, HMAX will employ an active covered call strategy.
Returns
YTD
+11.12%
1Y
+39.17%
3Y
+22.96%
5Y
—
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Diversification beyond Canadian banks into a larger U.S. financial sector
- Exposure to global financial leaders and investment banks
- Potential for higher growth compared to Canadian bank ETFs
- Income opportunities through dividends and covered call strategies
Cons
- Sensitive to economic cycles, credit markets, and interest rates
- Currency fluctuations (USD/CAD) can impact returns
- Sector concentration increases risk compared to broad ETFs
- Covered call strategies may limit upside potential
Compare These ETFs Head-to-Head
Drill into a side-by-side breakdown of performance, AUM, and yield.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best U.S. bank ETF for Canadians?
ZBK.TO is a strong option for Canadian investors seeking exposure to large U.S. banks. Alternatives like HEB.TO provide equal-weight exposure, while HMAX.TO focuses on generating higher income through a covered call strategy.
Are U.S. bank ETFs riskier than Canadian bank ETFs?
U.S. bank ETFs can carry similar or slightly higher risk due to broader exposure to global financial markets and economic cycles. However, they also provide greater diversification compared to Canadian bank ETFs, which are more concentrated.
Are U.S. bank ETFs good for a TFSA or RRSP?
U.S. bank ETFs can be held in both TFSAs and RRSPs. In a TFSA, returns are tax-free, but U.S. dividends may be subject to withholding tax. In an RRSP, taxes are deferred, and some withholding taxes may be avoided depending on the ETF structure.