The success of the exchange traded fund (ETF) industry has caught the eye of a long time player in the closed end fund industry.

Eaton Vance Corp. has apparently been talking to consultants regarding the possibility of active and passive ETFs, reports Fund Action newsletter. Bond giant Pacific Investment Management Company has just filed for a line of bond ETFs, possibly setting off the sparks for the interest.

Lower-than-expected third-quarter investment earnings are also suspected as a motivation, as Eaton Vance is looking at rising costs and negative revenue growth in the firm’s most recent quarter. And don’t forget the weak stock and bond market, adds Murray Coleman for Index Universe.

But take note: Eaton Vance is not hurting, with $155.8 billion in assets, the expansionary moves are not an attempt to save itself, rather a way to enhance.