The Iceland Advantage
Economic Independence
Iceland’s nimble, independent economy is outpacing larger, slower economies in the EU, offering flexible monetary policies, strategic trade access, and a high GDP per capita. With a 10% U.S. tariff compared to the EU’s 20%, Iceland’s economic agility proves that size isn’t everything.
Energy Advantage
Powered entirely by renewable energy, Iceland offers the cheapest electricity in Europe. Iceland’s energy independence keeps costs low, attracts foreign investment, and supports industrial growth, all while remaining green, unlike the EU’s dependence on fossil fuels.
Speed and Adaptability
While the EU struggles with layers of bureaucracy and slow decision-making, Iceland benefits from a flexible regulatory environment, close connections between businesses and policymakers, and an international, growth-driven mindset. This agility, combined with strong resilience, allows Iceland to adapt quickly and recover faster than larger economies.
Financial Stability
Iceland’s economy, driven by dynamic sectors like tourism, fisheries, and renewable energy, offers a stable and transparent financial environment for investors. With a resilient banking sector, low national debt, and strong credit ratings, the country presents growing opportunities for long-term investment as foreign interest continues to rise.
Strategic Location
Situated between North America and Europe, Iceland acts as a key transatlantic hub for trade, logistics, and Arctic business initiatives, offering strategic access to both the EU and the U.S. while remaining free from eurozone regulations.
Skilled & Stable
Ranked among the safest and most politically stable nations worldwide, Iceland offers a secure, low-risk environment supported by a highly educated, tech-savvy, and English-speaking population, creating an ideal foundation for innovation, R&D, and global business.
Guide to Nordic ETFs vs the Iceland ETF
What's the Difference?
The Nordic region, encompassing Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland, boast high GDP per capita, robust social safety nets, and leadership in sectors like renewable energy, technology, and finance. In a world full of exchange-traded funds (ETFs), investors often seek exposure to Nordic ETFs due to factors like these. While Nordic ETFs provide broad regional diversification to U.S. investors’ portfolios, the Iceland ETF offers more targeted exposure to one of the world’s most unique economies. The GlacierShares Iceland ETF is a leader in sustainability and renewable energy, and it provides U.S. investors simplified access to Iceland’s rich economy.
What are Nordic ETFs?
Nordic ETFs are investment vehicles that track indices comprising stocks from the Nordic countries. These funds aim to capture the collective growth of the region and are known for their innovation-driven economies. Nasdaq Nordic ETFs are comprised of many different sectors, including renewables, technology, healthcare, industrials, and finance. This wide range allows investors to participate in the region’s global leadership in clean energy, digital innovation, and sustainable finance. Additionally, Nordic countries are often praised for strong corporate governance and long-term sustainability practices, making them particularly attractive to investors with an ESG-focused strategy. Overall, Nordic ETFs combine the advantages of regional growth exposure, sector diversification, and alignment with global trends in sustainability and innovation. As a result, they appeal to investors seeking both financial returns and long-term sustainability.
Iceland vs. Nordic ETFs
While Nordic ETFs share many similar sectors and strengths with the Iceland ETF, size remains a large distinction. While the Nordic markets are larger, the agility of Iceland’s economy should not be understated. This agility allows the Nasdaq Iceland ETF to move faster than Nordic markets. Additionally, the GlacierShares Iceland ETF provides investors with exclusive access to Iceland’s economy, unlike many traditional Nordic ETFs that give investors exposure to the Nordic economy as a whole. A country-specific focus may provide diversification by moving differently from wider Nordic markets. Lastly, Iceland’s renewables-driven economy provides a natural ESG and sustainability focus, without exposure to fossil fuels. While the Nordic countries also prioritize renewable resources, these Nordic markets also include exposure to fossil fuels, specifically in Norway. With more and more people looking to renewable resources and ESG aligned strategies, the Iceland ETF offers unique access to a country powered almost entirely by sustainable energy.
What sets the GlacierShares Iceland ETF apart?
GLCR offers investors a streamlined avenue to the Icelandic stock market. Iceland’s economic independence, renewable energy leadership, financial stability, and strategic location set Iceland apart from other Nordic ETFs. Comprised of finance, healthcare, consumer sectors, industrials, energy, and real estate, the Iceland ETF offer a diverse range of stocks, giving U.S. investors a glimpse of why they should invest in Iceland. This provides investors a glimpse of the Iceland economy in a single trade, while still avoiding the risks associated with a single stock. Additionally, Iceland’s economy is naturally driven by renewables, offering alignment with ESG-focused and sustainability-driven investors. Iceland’s economy, while represented by a diverse range of industries, is captured through the GlacierShares Iceland ETF and offers U.S. investors exposure to a stable Nordic economy that priorities sustainability.
Why Iceland’s Economy is a Hidden Gem for U.S. Investors
When U.S. investors look abroad for new investment opportunities, Iceland often remains overlooked as compared to other larger economies. However, Iceland’s resilient economy, financial stability, strategic location, and renewable resources present the country as a promising opportunity for American investors, causing more to realize the opportunity in investing in Iceland.
Situated in the North Atlantic, Iceland connects both North America and Europe. In this way, Iceland bridges these two advanced markets. Iceland is part of the European Economic Area (EEA) through its membership in the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). This allows businesses based in Iceland to access the European single market without many of the barriers that non-EEA countries face. For American investors, this means they can establish a presence in Iceland and enjoy many of the same trade advantages as European companies.
Strategically, Iceland’s location also holds growing importance in global logistics and data infrastructure. As Arctic shipping routes gradually expand, Iceland’s ports and proximity to northern sea lanes could become increasingly valuable for trade and energy transport. While discussions around Arctic ETFs are growing, the Iceland ETF provides access to this region. Similarly, the country’s stable renewable energy resources make it a prime location for data.
Iceland’s geographic position acts as a gateway for US investors. It offers a strategic foothold in the heart of the North Atlantic, linking the economic powerhouses of Europe and North America while providing access to emerging northern trade and energy.
Generating nearly 100% of its electricity from geothermal and hydropower sources, Iceland is a global leader in renewable energy. This clean, abundant energy supply provides a strong competitive advantage for energy-intensive industries such as aluminum smelting, data centers, and hydrogen production. For U.S. investors, Iceland’s energy sector presents unique opportunities, from developing green hydrogen projects to investing in carbon capture, battery storage, and other emerging clean technologies. Sometimes referred to as the Iceland renewable energy ETF, Iceland’s renewable edge can be obtained through investing in the GLCR Iceland ETF. Additionally, Iceland’s government actively supports sustainable investment. They do this through favorable policies and incentives aimed at expanding green infrastructure and attracting environmentally conscious businesses. The country’s expertise in geothermal energy is also being exported worldwide, making it a valuable hub for innovation in global clean-energy solutions. This makes Iceland an attractive investment to ESG-focused investors.
As global interest in sustainable investing ETFs and ESG ETFs continues to grow, more institutional and retail investors are starting to invest in Iceland, viewing it as a gateway to Nordic green energy. Iceland’s commitment to sustainability and innovation set it apart from other regions in the world. For U.S. investors, Iceland not only offers growth potential, but alignment with global trends toward green technology, sustainability, and ESG investing. This makes Iceland an attractive platform for sustainable, ESG-focused capital deployment.
Despite its size, Iceland boasts a strong and resilient economy, strategic positioning between North America and Europe, and a strong focus in sustainability. For U.S. investors seeking diversification, sustainability, and access to emerging transatlantic markets, Iceland stands out as a hidden gem for investment. Through the GLCR ETF, American investors can obtain access to this new frontier and own a part of the Iceland stock market.
What Sectors Drive the Iceland ETF?
From Energy to Finance
Introduction
When looking for exposure to the Nordic region, sustainability embedded within industries, and financial stability, many investors are looking to the Iceland ETF since its inception in March of 2025. The GlacierShares Nasdaq Iceland ETF (GLCR) gives U.S. investors access to the Iceland stock market, a small but transparent and environmentally forward economy. Because ESG ETFs, renewable energy ETFs, and climate investing ETFs are becoming increasing more prominent, Iceland stands out as a hidden gem opportunity, combining low debt, financial stability, and a strong focus on renewables. From energy to finance, the Iceland ETF is made up of a variety of industries that give investors access to Iceland’s economy.
Energy & Sustainability
When it comes to clean energy ETFs or renewable ETFs, Iceland is in a class of its own. The country generates nearly 100% of its electricity from renewable energy sources, primarily geothermal and hydroelectric power. This makes it one of the world’s cleanest and most sustainable economies, and a model for economies focusing on the energy transition and mitigating climate change.
Due to the natural abundance in renewable energy, Iceland hosts industries like aluminum smelting, data centers, and emerging green hydrogen projects. This energy independence reduces import reliance and positions the country as a global leader in sustainability, often ranking high on the Global Peace Index and ESG performance metrics.
The GlacierShares Iceland ETF indirectly captures this green advantage through holdings tied to industrial, materials, and energy infrastructure sectors. As global investors search for the next green ETF, Iceland’s stands out as a natural sustainable investing ETF.
Finance
The largest sector that makes up the Iceland ETF is financials. Arion Bank, Islandbanki, Kvika Bank, Sjova, and Skagi represent these holdings. Since the global financial crisis in 2008, Iceland was forced to rebuild a majority of its banking sector. Due to the implementation of many reforms to its banking sector after the crisis, Iceland’s financial sector has been reshaped into one of the more stable and transparent economies of its size.
Healthcare & Biotech
The Iceland ETF also includes exposure to many health and biotech companies, including Aker Biomarine, Oculis, Alvotech, and Embla Medical. These firms represent Iceland’s pivot towards innovation, research and development, and export-driven growth. Not only is Iceland growing rapidly within its borders, it is also demonstrating its global exposure and being considered an international growth ETF.
For investors tracking ESG ETFs and climate-aligned healthcare innovation, these companies show how Iceland’s small economy can beat the odds. GLCR isn’t just about fish and finance, it also represents international growth ETFs rooted in science and global health.
Marine and Resource Exports
Iceland’s marine industry is central to any discussion regarding the country’s strengths and remain a key component of Iceland’s GDP growth. Fisheries, aquaculture, and seafood processing remain central to the Iceland ETF; however, the fisheries companies within the ETF are based in Norway due to Iceland’s strict foreign ownership of fisheries regulations. So, while still exposing investors to the blue economy in the Iceland ETF, Iceland’s fisheries cannot be included. Companies like Mowi ASA, SalMar ASA, Salmon Evolution, Austevoll Seafood, Leroy Seafood Group, and Bakkafrost are included within the Iceland ETF, but are also found in other Nordic ETFs.
Real Estate
Iceland’s real estate makes up a crucial aspect of the Iceland ETF. Eik fasteignafélag, Heimar, Kaldalon, Skel Fjarfestingafelag, Reitir fasteignafélag make up this sector within the Iceland ETF and represent many of the commercial and residential properties throughout the country. Rapid tourism growth, urban expansion in Reykjavik, and the rise of data centers have all driven investment in property and logistics in Iceland. The companies that make up this sector of the GlacierShares Iceland ETF all contribute to Iceland’s position as a sustainable real estate market within Northern Europe.
WHY ICELAND IS THE ULTIMATE ESG ETF OPPORTUNITY
Introduction
As the global demand for ESG ETFs, renewable energy ETFs, and sustainability-focused investments accelerates, Iceland stands out among the rest. While the Nordic and Scandinavian countries have historically been associated with clean energy and social responsibility, Iceland’s renewable dominance and ESG edge speaks for itself. With its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2040, natural dominance in renewables, goals in environmental stewardship, and leadership in social governance, Iceland naturally aligns with ESG and sustainability-driven portfolios.
The GLCR ETF, also known as the GlacierShares Iceland ETF, is designed to track the MarketVector Iceland Global Index, which measures the performance of publicly traded Icelandic (and Norwegian fisheries) companies. These firms represent Iceland’s most dynamic sectors, from renewable energy, materials, and technology to finance, fisheries, industrials and consumer staples. Through the Iceland ETF, investors can gain exposure to the Icelandic stock market and own a part of Iceland’s natural ESG-prioritized economy.
Environmental Goals
Although Iceland is often grouped with Scandinavia and the Nordic region, its Arctic geography and independent economy make it distinct. With nearly 100% of its electricity generated from renewable sources (mainly geothermal and hydropower) Iceland is a carbon-neutral energy leader and a model for sustainability ETFs and renewable energy ETFs worldwide.
The country’s national target of carbon neutrality by 2040 and goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 under the Paris Agreement puts the country in alignment with the climate goals of many countries in Europe [1]. The country also plans to be fossil-fuel free by 2050. Additionally, Iceland has a Climate Action Plan that contains 150 actions to help the country reach its climate goals [1]. For investors focused on climate change ETFs, green energy ETFs, and energy transition ETFs, Iceland represents forward momentum and current alignment.
Social Governance
In 2025, according to a report by Statista, Iceland ranked the highest on offering the most gender equal working conditions, with a score of 0.93 [2]. Overall, the Nordic countries make up 3 of the 5 most gender equal countries worldwide, proving the Nordics' leadership in the embodiment of ESG principles. Additionally, Iceland uses a set of 40 well-being indicators aligned with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development [3]. These indicators fall under three categories – society, economy, and energy – and demonstrate Iceland’s commitment to strong social governance.
Conclusion
Few nations embody the spirit of ESG investing as comprehensively as Iceland. Iceland’s strong environmental goals, natural renewable energy dominance, and high working conditions positions the country as the ultimate ESG opportunity. Through the GlacierShares Iceland ETF, investors prioritizing ESG and sustainable investments can gain access to this unique, hidden gem economy.
References
[1]. https://www.government.is/topics/environment-climate-and-nature-protection/climate-change/
[2]. https://www.statista.com/statistics/244387/the-global-gender-gap-index/#:~:text=In%202025%2C%20the%20country%20offering,most%20gender%20equal%20countries%20worldwide
[3]. https://www.government.is/topics/sustainable-iceland/well-being/indicators-for-measuring-well-being/
5 Reasons Investors Choose the Iceland ETF
1. Access to Iceland’s Economy
The GlacierShares Iceland ETF (GLCR) provides direct exposure to one of the world’s most dynamic small economies. With strong sectors in renewable energy, technology, finance, and fisheries, GLCR provides investors the opportunity to invest in Iceland. Through GLCR, U.S. investors can easily invest in Iceland’s economy via a single Nasdaq-listed ETF, gaining access to the Iceland stock market and its global export-driven companies. The ETF is built for convenience, no foreign accounts or currency conversions needed.
2. ESG Edge
Iceland stands at the forefront of ESG investing, powered by nearly 100% renewable electricity, carbon neutrality goals by 2040, and a transparent governance model. The Iceland ETF captures this unique ESG advantage, aligning with investor demand for sustainability ETFs, green energy ETFs, and climate-focused investing. For those seeking a truly authentic ESG ETF, GLCR offers exposure to one of the planet’s cleanest and most socially responsible economies.
3. Speed & Adaptability
As a small yet innovative economy, Iceland excels in adapting to global shifts. From financial reforms to clean energy technology, this agility enables Iceland to innovate quickly, diversify exports, and sustain growth through changing market cycles. Iceland boasts a flexible regulatory environment, closes relationships between businesses and policymakers, and a growth driven mindset while the EU struggles with layers of bureaucracy and slow decision-making. This agility, combined with strong resilience, allows Iceland to adapt quickly and recover faster than larger economies.
4. Strategic Location
Positioned between North America and Europe, Iceland serves as a strategic Arctic hub for transatlantic trade, renewable energy infrastructure, and data centers. This geographic advantage allows Iceland to act as a key transatlantic hub, giving Iceland ETF investors exposure to a country that bridges continents and plays a vital role in the energy transition.
5. Financial Stability
Backed by a strong Central Bank, low public debt, strong credit ratings and sound monetary policy, Iceland maintains a stable and transparent financial system. Post-reform, its banking sector is among the most resilient and well-regulated in Europe. Furthermore, the country presents growing opportunities for long-term investment as foreign interest continues to rise.
How to Invest in the Iceland ETF
For U.S. investors seeking international diversification, sustainable growth, and exposure to one of the world’s cleanest economies, Iceland has emerged as an unexpected but powerful opportunity. Despite its small size, Iceland’s economy is built on renewable energy, financial transparency, strong governance, and technological innovation. This makes it attractive for investors who prioritize ESG, stability, and long-term growth.
Until recently, buying Iceland stocks has been difficult for U.S. investors. The Nasdaq Iceland exchange is not widely accessible, foreign brokerage accounts are complex, and liquidity is limited. The GlacierShares Iceland ETF (GLCR) is transforming how global investors gain exposure to Iceland equities. Since its inception in March of 2025, investors can now easily access Icelandic companies through a U.S.-listed ETF in a single trade.
Why Invest in the Iceland ETF?
Iceland’s economy offers a combination of renewable energy dominance, macroeconomic resilience, and a strong commitment to sustainability and transparent governance. The country runs on nearly 100% renewable electricity, making it a natural fit for investors seeking a green energy ETF, sustainability ETF, or climate investing ETF.
Key strengths include:
• A carbon-neutral roadmap to 2040
• Low national debt and strong Central Bank policies
• Stable banking system rebuilt with transparency
• Strong GDP growth driven by tourism, tech, and renewable energy • Strategic location connecting North America and Europe
GLCR Iceland ETF
The easiest and most efficient way to invest in Iceland stocks is through the GlacierShares Iceland ETF (GLCR), a U.S.-listed fund that tracks the MarketVector Iceland Global Index. This index captures the performance of the Iceland stock market, giving U.S. investors diversified exposure to companies across sectors like:
• Renewable energy
• Financials
• Technology
• Telecommunications
• Industrials
• Consumer Staples
• Real Estate
Instead of navigating the complexities of foreign stock trading, investors can buy the Iceland ETF just like any other international ETF, directly from their existing U.S. brokerage account.
How to buy GLCR in the US
1. Search for the GLCR ETF
In your brokerage platform, enter the ticker GLCR.
2. Review the details
Check things like the fund's top holdings, index methodology, sector weightings, expense ratio, ESG alignment, and the fund’s prospectus.
3. Place your order
You can purchase the ETF via market or limit order and specify the quantity you want to purchase.
For decades, investing directly in Iceland was restricted to sophisticated global investors. Today, the GlacierShares Iceland ETF (GLCR) unlocks this previously hard-to-access market, offering a convenient, transparent, and sustainable way to invest in Iceland’s economy, its renewable energy transition, and its Arctic strategic growth.
If you want exposure to a green, stable, innovative, and fast-adapting economy, you can now invest in Iceland stocks with one ETF and position your portfolio ahead of a rising global trend toward Nordic and ESG-driven growth economies.
Why Iceland Is the Green Alternative to Nordic ETFs
As sustainable investing grows more and more popular in global markets, many investors look to Nordic ETFs and Scandinavian ETFs for exposure to the world’s most environmentally responsible economies. Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland have long been considered leaders in renewable energy, transparent governance, and social responsibility.
But another country is starting to stand out even more: Iceland.
Today, Iceland is becoming a green alternative to traditional Nordic ETFs. The country runs almost entirely on renewable power, follows high ESG standards, and is positioned strategically in the Arctic economy. With the new GlacierShares Iceland ETF (GLCR), U.S. investors can now easily invest in Iceland’s market with one simple investment.
Unlike most Nordic countries where clean energy is common, but fossil fuels are still used, Iceland is built on almost entirely clean, renewable energy. Due to the amount of volcanic activity in the country, Iceland relies on its geothermal and hydropower resources, making its energy system one of the cleanest in the world.
For investors, this creates opportunities that typical Nordic or Scandinavian ETFs don’t offer:
• Exposure to electricity that is near zero-carbon
• A country with a firm goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2040
• Companies that directly benefit from Iceland’s renewable energy network
Therefore, for investors looking for green energy, renewable, or sustainability-focused ETFs, Iceland offers some of the purest clean-energy exposure available.
Iceland offers ESG exposure that is more concentrated than other Nordic economies and Nordic ETFs. Unlike larger Nordic countries, where industries vary widely, Iceland’s small size and renewable energy system make its sustainability profile more concentrated. Almost all of its electricity and heating come from geothermal and hydropower, allowing investors to get exposure to a market built on clean energy. The country also ranks highly for transparency, worker protections, and social equality, which strengthens its overall ESG rankings.
Iceland’s location also gives it a strategic edge. Situated near key Arctic shipping routes between North America and Europe, Iceland is positioned in a location important for logistics, data centers, aviation, and scientific research. The country has become a hub between the markets of North America and Europe, offering stable infrastructure and renewable power. For investors, this geographic advantage adds another layer of long-term growth potential alongside its strong sustainability profile.
When investors buy broad Nordic ETFs, they gain exposure to stable, responsible economies but with a carbon footprint influenced by fossil fuels and offshore sectors.
Meanwhile, investing in Iceland offers:
- A smaller, greener, and more concentrated ESG profile
- Nearly 100% renewable energy exposure
- Commitment to zero-carbon emissions by 2040
- A high-transparency economic system
- Financial stability driven by dynamic sectors
- A unique Arctic and transatlantic geographic advantage
This is why many sustainable investors now view Iceland as the green, modern alternative to traditional Nordic ETFs.
Iceland’s Economy: Small Country, Big Growth Story
Introduction
Iceland may be small in population, but its economy tells a story of resilience, innovation, and transformation. From the depths of the 2008 financial crisis to becoming a leader in renewable energy, tourism, and sustainable industrial growth, Iceland offers a new perspective on economic recovery and presents a strong opportunity for global and ESG-focused investors.
Rebuilding After the 2008 Financial Crisis
The collapse of Iceland’s banking system in 2008 was a pivotal moment in Iceland’s history. The country's three major banks (Glitnir, Kaupthing, and Landsbanki) failed virtually overnight, triggering a massive economic contraction. According to a paper from the National Bureau of Economic Research, by 2008, the Icelandic banking system’s assets had grown to nearly nine times the size of the country’s GDP [1].
To stabilize the economy, Iceland embarked on many bold reforms:
1. Capital Controls & Currency Stabilization: The government imposed strict capital controls, limiting money from flowing out of the country. These measures helped stabilize the Icelandic króna, protecting domestic deposits and preventing further capital flight [2].
2. Bank Restructuring: Instead of bailing out failing banks entirely, Iceland split their operations. The domestic parts were restructured into new, viable institutions and the foreign operations were allowed to fail or be wound down [2].
3. Fiscal Policy & Social Support: The Icelandic government used a phased fiscal consolidation strategy, balancing the need to restore public finances with protecting the country’s social welfare system [2].
4. IMF Support: An IMF program provided around $2.1 billion in emergency financing, demonstrating international support [2].
5. Recovery of Fiscal Health: Over time, Iceland reduced its public debt, rebuilt foreign-exchange reserves, and phased out capital controls (which were fully removed in 2017) [3].
The New Growth: Renewable Energy, Tourism & Innovation
Post-crisis, Iceland redefined its economic identity.
• Renewable Energy: Iceland’s dominance in geothermal and hydropower energy represents a huge competitive advantage for the country.
• Tourism Boom: Following the crisis , in 2010, after the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull, travel in and out of the country ceased. However, after news of the eruption spread around the world, Iceland attracted millions of visitors and tourism became a central pillar of its economy [4].
• Sustainable Industries: The country is now home to innovative industries, from food-processing technology to medical devices, that leverage Iceland’s clean energy base.
• ESG Leadership: Iceland’s energy model, makes it an attractive target for global ESG and green energy focused investors and sustainable investing strategies.
Conclusion
Iceland’s journey from the 2008 banking collapse to becoming a world leader in renewable energy, financial stability, and sustainable growth has transformed it into an attractive investment opportunity for investors looking to invest in Iceland. Its combination of clean-energy infrastructure, disciplined monetary policy, transparent governance, and export-driven innovation positions the country as a standout alternative to traditional Nordic ETFs and Scandinavia ETFs. As demand rises for ESG ETFs, green energy ETFs, sustainability ETFs, and climate-focused strategies, international investors are turning to the Iceland ETF as a gateway to Iceland’s renewables-driven economy. Iceland’s story of resilience through the economic crisis in 2008 demonstrates how Iceland presents a large opportunity for international investors.
References
[1]. https://www.nber.org/papers/w24005
[2]. https://www.imf.org/en/countries/isl/iceland-lending-case-study
[3]. https://www.cnbc.com/2017/03/13/iceland-ends-capital-controls-more-than-eight-years-after-2008-crash.html
[4]. https://internationalfinance.com/economy/the-icelandic-economy-is-back-on-its-feet/
Iceland’s Role in the Global Energy Transition
Introduction
The global energy transition refers to the worldwide shift fossil-fuel based energy sources to renewable and low-carbon options. As global markets accelerate toward decarbonization, countries powered by clean, stable, and scalable energy systems are becoming increasingly attractive to investors. While many look to Nordic ETFs or broader Europe clean energy ETFs for exposure to renewable-driven economies, Iceland stands out as a leader.
With nearly 100% renewable electricity, world-class geothermal expertise, and a growing ecosystem of energy-intensive industries powered by geothermal and hydropower, Iceland has emerged as a strategic hub in the global energy transition. For investors seeking a sustainability-focused global allocation, more are turning to invest in Iceland.
Today, U.S. investors can access this opportunity directly through the GLCR ETF (GlacierShares Iceland ETF), which tracks the MarketVector Iceland Global Index and offers exposure to the Iceland stock market.
Built on Renewables
Iceland's journey to renewable dominance during the 1973 oil crisis, when the country pivoted from imported fossil fuels to its abundant geothermal resources. Today, over 99% of electricity comes from renewables, primarily geothermal and hydropower. Iceland is one of the only countries in the world where renewable power is more than just a policy goal. It is the foundation of the entire economy. Iceland’s electricity is not only nearly 100% renewable, but it is among the cheapest in Europe, as well as stable and scalable.
As the world leans towards cleaner infrastructure and ESG-aligned growth, Iceland offers a unique opportunity. This positions the country as a natural fit for investors seeking ESG ETFs, renewable energy ETFs, sustainability ETFs, and climate change ETFs.
A Strategic Hub
Globally, Iceland is positioning itself as an Arctic hub for clean energy innovation. Projects like the Hellisheidi geothermal plant's green hydrogen production and Climeworks' direct air capture facilities demonstrate its edge renewable energy-based research [1,2]. Additionally, as a member of the Global Geothermal Alliance, Iceland shares expertise with developing nations through initiatives like the UN's High-Level Dialogue on Energy, emphasizing transitions that include gender equality and job creation [3].
For investors, this translates to exposure to Iceland’s renewables-driven economy through the companies in the Icelandic stock market. More ESG-focused investors are choosing to invest in Iceland through the GlacierShares Iceland ETF because it provides direct access to these sustainability-prioritized industries within Iceland’s economy. Amid rising geopolitical tensions over fossil fuels, Iceland's energy independence enhances its appeal as a stable player in the global energy transition.
Conclusion
Iceland’s role in the global energy transition is more than just a model. With a low debt economy, its GDP growth trajectory, and innovations in clean energy, Iceland is primed for investors prioritizing ESG investing and climate investing ETF strategies. The GlacierShares ETF (GLCR) provides this access, turning this Arctic powerhouse into a portfolio staple for U.S. investors.
Iceland’s leadership in renewable power, geothermal innovation, and sustainability-focused industries positions it at the forefront of the global energy transition. Coupled with its strategic Arctic location and transparent, stable economic foundation, Iceland is pioneering the transition towards renewables. As the country is leading the way in this transition, Iceland is showing why more investors are beginning to invest in Iceland’s small but impactful economy.
References
[1]. https://www.power-technology.com/projects/hellisheidi-geothermal-power-plant/
[2]. https://climeworks.com/direct-air-capture
[3]. https://www.globalgeothermalalliance.org/
Read about Iceland's commitments to decarbonization below
How U.S. Investors Can Buy the Iceland ETF
Step 1: Open a Brokerage Account
The Iceland ETF is U.S.-listed, so you can purchase it through any major brokerage platform, including but not limited to:
• Charles Schwab
• Fidelity
• E*TRADE
• TD Ameritrade
• Robinhood
•Vanguard
• Interactive Brokers
Step 2: Search for the Iceland ETF by Ticker (GLCR)
Once logged into your platform, use the search bar to look up the ETF:
Ticker Symbol: GLCR
Name: GlacierShares Iceland ETF
You may also see its index reference: MarketVector Iceland Global Index.
This ticker will appear like any other U.S.-listed ETF, unlike traditional foreign securities that require special trading permissions.
Step 3: Review the ETF Details
Before buying, review the details:
• ETF holdings
• Expense ratio
• Trading volume and liquidity
• Performance vs. other Nordic ETFs or international growth ETFs
This step ensures the ETF aligns with your goals, whether sustainability, diversification, or exposure to Iceland’s long-term growth.
Step 4: Choose Your Order Type
Just like purchasing any other ETF, you can use:
• Market orders • Limit orders
• Recurring purchases
Step 6: Monitor Your Investment
After purchasing the GLCR ETF, investors typically track:
• Iceland’s economic data: growth, inflation, central bank decisions
• Global trends in renewable energy, ESG investing, and Arctic development
• Performance relative to other Nordic ETFs, frontier market ETFs, or international ETFs
Buying the Iceland ETF is simple for U.S. investors: open a brokerage account, search for ticker GLCR, and place a trade just as you would with any other ETF. With a single trade, investors are able to invest in Iceland and gain access to the major public companies in Iceland’s stock market.