ETFs – What’s in a Ticker?

Exchange traded fund providers have been using the ticker symbols they choose to market their ETFs.  John Spence of MarketWatch takes a look at some of the providers and the ticker symbols used to help brand their ETF.  Below are some of the ETFs he reviews:

• Rydex Russell Top 50 (XLG) – invests in the 50 largest companies in the U.S.
• iShares Comex Gold Trust (IAU) – uses the Periodic Table symbol for gold, AU
• Vanguard Telecommunication Services (VOX) – a technical acronym for
  "voice operated switch"
• PowerShares Dynamic Food & Beverage (PBJ) – how could you forget about peanut butter and jelly!