Broad Based Index Fund Market Outlook

The global broad-based index fund market size was valued at USD 5.3 trillion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 11.2 trillion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% during the forecast period. This substantial growth is driven by increasing investor interest in passive investment strategies, along with the rising emphasis on cost-effective and diversified portfolio management.

The surge in demand for broad-based index funds can be attributed to several key growth factors. Firstly, the growing awareness and education about the benefits of passive investing over active management have played a significant role. Investors are increasingly leaning towards index funds due to their lower expense ratios, tax efficiency, and the ability to provide broad market exposure with minimal effort. Secondly, technological advancements and the rise of fintech have made these funds more accessible to a wider audience through online platforms and robo-advisors, democratizing investment opportunities for retail investors globally. Lastly, regulatory changes in many regions are encouraging greater transparency and lower fees in the financial services industry, which further bolsters the attractiveness of index funds as a preferred investment vehicle.

The popularity of broad-based index funds is also bolstered by their performance resilience during market volatility. Historical data indicates that while actively managed funds often struggle to outperform the market consistently, index funds tend to provide more stable returns over the long term. This trend has been particularly noticeable during economic downturns and periods of market uncertainty, where investors seek the relative safety and predictability offered by broad-based diversified portfolios. Additionally, the increased focus on retirement planning and the shift from defined benefit to defined contribution retirement plans have spurred the growth of index funds as they are often the preferred choice in retirement accounts due to their long-term growth potential and lower costs.

The regional outlook for the broad-based index fund market highlights significant growth potential across various geographies. North America, particularly the United States, remains the largest market for index funds, driven by the deep-rooted culture of investing and a well-established financial infrastructure. Europe follows closely, with growth fueled by regulatory support and increasing investor awareness. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate, propelled by the burgeoning middle class, rising disposable incomes, and increasing penetration of financial services. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also anticipated to demonstrate steady growth as financial markets in these regions continue to develop and mature.

Mutual Funds Sales have seen a notable uptick as investors increasingly seek diversified investment options that align with their financial goals. This trend is particularly evident in the context of broad-based index funds, where mutual funds offer a structured approach to investing in a wide array of assets. The appeal of mutual funds lies in their ability to pool resources from multiple investors, enabling access to a diversified portfolio that might otherwise be unattainable for individual investors. This collective investment model not only reduces risk but also provides investors with professional management and oversight. As the financial landscape evolves, mutual funds continue to play a crucial role in facilitating access to index funds, thereby driving sales and expanding their market presence.

Fund Type Analysis

Equity index funds represent a significant portion of the broad-based index fund market. These funds track a variety of stock indices, such as the S&P 500, NASDAQ, and MSCI World Index, providing investors with exposure to a wide array of equity markets. The appeal of equity index funds lies in their ability to offer broad market diversification at a low cost. Investors benefit from the lower fees associated with passive management and the reduced risk of individual stock selection. As a result, equity index funds have become a staple in both retail and institutional portfolios, driving robust demand and growth in this segment.

Bond index funds, though smaller in market share compared to their equity counterparts, are gaining traction as investors seek stable income and risk diversifi

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global index fund market size was USD XX million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The insurance fund held the highest index fund market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Index Fund Market

Key Drivers for Index Fund Market

Increased Awareness and Education About Investing to Increase the Demand Globally

Increased awareness and education about investing have driven the growth of the index fund market. As people become more informed about financial principles, they realize the advantages of index funds, including low expenses, diversification, and transparency. Understanding the advantages of passive investing over operational management fosters confidence in index funds as dedicated vehicles for long-term wealth accumulation. This heightened attention drives greater participation in the market, shaping it into a key element of many investors' portfolios and contributing to its ongoing expansion.

Changes in Regulatory Policies, Such As Tax Laws Or Securities Regulations to Propel Market Growth

Changes in regulatory policies, like alterations in tax laws or securities regulations, can profoundly impact the index fund market. Shifts in tax codes may affect investors' after-tax returns, influencing their investment decisions. Similarly, changes in securities regulations can influence the structure and function of index funds, potentially limiting their attractiveness or compliance needs. Such changes can lead to changes in investor behavior, fund implementation, and market dynamics, highlighting the interconnectedness between regulatory conditions and the index fund market's strength and development trajectory?.

Restraint Factor for the Index Fund Market

Changes in Financial Regulations to Limit the Sales

Changes in financial regulations can significantly impact the index fund market. Stricter regulatory requirements may improve compliance expenses for fund managers, potentially directing investors to higher fees. Additionally, regulations that restrict certain types of investments or mandate more comprehensive reporting can decrease the flexibility and attractiveness of index funds. Conversely, regulations encouraging transparency and investor protection can increase confidence and participation in the market.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Index Fund Market

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the index fund market, initially causing volatility and sharp drops. However, it also revved a shift towards passive investing due to market anticipation and the search for stability. Investors flocked to index funds for their low expenses, diversification, and constant performance. The subsequent market recovery, fueled by monetary and fiscal stimulation, further expanded index fund assets. Overall, the pandemic highlighted the resilience of index funds and solidified their attraction as a core investment strategy during times of economic uncertainty. Introduction of the Index Fund Market

An index fund is a type of mutual fund or ETF designed to replicate the performance of a specific financial market index, delivering low costs, broad diversification, and passive investment management. Growing disposable incomes in developing regions significantly boost the index fund market. As individuals in these areas gain more financial stability, they seek investment opportunities to increase their wealth. Index funds, with their low expenses, ...

The number of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the United States has steadily increased. Starting with *** ETFs in 2003, this amount has grown to a total of ***** ETFs as of June 2025. The value of assets under management (AUM) allocated to ETFs in the United States has experienced a sharp increase. What is an ETF? An ETF is a pooled financial product that can be bought and sold on the stock market by retail and institutional investors. ETFs are structured to track the performance of underlying securities. This may range from tracking a singular underlying commodity to a diverse assortment of securities. Some of the largest ETF providers by market share in the United States as of 2025 included BlackRock and Vanguard, each accounting for approximately ********* or more of the U.S. market. Types of ETFs Broad-based domestic equity, global equity, and bond ETFs have the highest issuance rates of ETFs in the United States. A broad-based index sets a benchmark to track the performance of a group of underlying securities. A popular example includes the evaluated performance difference between the S&P 500 ESG and S&P 500 indexes.

Historical AI model predictions and analysis for S&P 500 ETF stock across multiple timeframes and confidence levels

Global Broad Based Index Fund market size 2025 was XX Million. Broad Based Index Fund Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.

Commodity Index Funds Market Outlook

The global commodity index funds market size was valued at approximately $200 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach nearly $400 billion by 2032, growing at a robust CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period. The significant growth in this market can be attributed to the increasing demand for diversification in investment portfolios and the inherent benefits of hedging against inflation that commodity investments provide. Furthermore, the volatility in global stock markets and geopolitical uncertainties have led investors to seek safer, more stable investment avenues, thus driving the growth of commodity index funds.

One of the primary growth factors propelling the commodity index funds market is the rising awareness among investors about the advantages of commodity investments as a hedge against inflation. Commodities, unlike stocks and bonds, often move inversely to the stock market, providing a cushion during market downturns. This characteristic makes commodity index funds an attractive option for risk-averse investors and those looking to balance their portfolios. Additionally, the globalization of trade and the increasing demand for raw materials in emerging markets have further spurred the demand for commodity investments.

Technological advancements in trading platforms have also significantly contributed to the growth of this market. The advent of sophisticated online platforms has made it easier for retail investors to access and invest in commodity index funds. These platforms offer a range of tools and resources that help investors make informed decisions, thereby democratizing access to commodity investments. Moreover, the rise of robo-advisors and algorithm-based trading strategies has further simplified the investment process, attracting a new generation of tech-savvy investors.

The regulatory landscape has also played a crucial role in shaping the commodity index funds market. Governments and financial regulatory bodies across the globe have been working to create a transparent and secure trading environment. Regulatory reforms aimed at reducing market manipulation and increasing transparency have instilled confidence among investors, thereby boosting the market. Additionally, tax incentives and favorable policies for commodity investments in various countries have also contributed to market growth.

In terms of regional outlook, North America holds a significant share of the global commodity index funds market, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. The presence of well-established financial markets and a high level of investor awareness in North America are key factors driving the market in this region. Europe, with its strong regulatory framework and increasing adoption of alternative investment strategies, is also witnessing substantial growth. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a lucrative market, driven by the rapid economic growth in countries like China and India, and the increasing interest in commodity investments among institutional and retail investors.

Fund Type Analysis

When analyzing the market by fund type, Broad Commodity Index Funds dominate the landscape. These funds invest in a diversified portfolio of commodities, making them a popular choice for investors seeking broad exposure to the commodity markets. The broad commodity index funds are designed to track the performance of a basket of commodities, ranging from energy products to metals and agricultural goods. This diversification helps mitigate risks associated with the volatility of individual commodities, thereby providing a more stable investment option for risk-averse investors.

Single Commodity Index Funds, on the other hand, focus on specific commodities such as gold, oil, or agricultural products. These funds appeal to investors who have a strong conviction about the performance of a particular commodity. For instance, during periods of economic uncertainty, gold-focused funds often see a surge in demand as investors flock to the safe-haven asset. Similarly, energy-focused funds attract investors when there are disruptions in oil supply or significant geopolitical events affecting oil prices. While these funds offer the potential for high returns, they also come with higher risks due to their lack of diversification.

Sector Commodity Index Funds are another important segment within the commodity index funds market. These funds concentrate on commodities within a specific sector, such as energy, agriculture, or metals, allowing investors to target particular segments of the commo

Index Time Series for FlexShares ESG & Climate Developed Markets ex-US Core Index Fund. The frequency of the observation is daily. Moving average series are also typically included. The underlying index is designed to reflect the performance of a selection of companies that exhibit certain ESG characteristics in the aggregate, while also seeking to provide broad-market, core exposure to publicly traded equity securities issued by companies domiciled in developed market countries, excluding the U.S. The fund will invest at least 80% of its total assets in the securities of the index and in ADRs and GDRs based on the securities in the index. The fund is non-diversified.

In September 2025, among all the indices listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India, Nifty 100 had the highest dividend yield. This was closely followed by Nifty 200. What are broad market indices? Broad market indices, also called market indices, are utilized to monitor the performance of a collection of stocks that closely mirror the overall stock market. They generally consist of large, liquid stocks listed on the stock exchange. They serve as a benchmark for measuring the performance of the stock market or portfolios such as mutual fund investments. In many broad-based indexes, companies are weighted based on their market value. This means that larger companies carry more weight in determining the index price compared to smaller ones. For instance, in the Nifty-50 index, Cipla, a major pharmaceutical company, has a significant impact, while smaller companies like Natco Pharma have less influence due to their lower market capitalization. What is Nifty 50? Nifty-50 is the flagship index of NSE. It tracks the movement of the portfolio of the ** largest blue-chip companies and most liquid securities in the Indian market. It is extensively used by domestic and foreign investors as the barometer of the Indian capital market. Annual returns of Nifty-50 were around ** percent in fiscal year 2023, indicating strong market performance.

The global commodity index funds market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing investor interest in diversifying portfolios and hedging against inflation. The market, estimated at $500 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8% between 2025 and 2033, reaching approximately $1 trillion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, rising inflation across global economies is prompting investors to seek assets that offer inflation protection, and commodities are often considered a suitable hedge. Secondly, the increasing complexity of global markets is leading investors to explore diversified investment strategies, with commodity index funds providing a convenient access point to a broad range of commodities. Thirdly, the growing adoption of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) and other index-tracking vehicles makes commodity investing more accessible and cost-effective for both individual and institutional investors. The market is segmented by fund type (precious metals, agricultural, base metals, energy, etc.) and application (personal finance, corporate investment, risk management), with significant regional variations in adoption. North America currently dominates the market due to the presence of major market players and sophisticated investor base, although Asia-Pacific is expected to witness considerable growth driven by increasing investment activity from emerging economies. Several factors could restrain market growth. Geopolitical instability, supply chain disruptions, and regulatory changes in the commodity markets can all create uncertainty and impact investor sentiment. Furthermore, the inherent volatility of commodity prices poses a risk for investors, particularly in times of economic downturn. Competition among leading asset management companies, such as BlackRock, Invesco, and iShares, is intense, driving innovation in product offerings and cost optimization. The future growth trajectory will depend heavily on global macroeconomic conditions, regulatory frameworks, and investor sentiment towards commodity-based investment vehicles. The continuous evolution of commodity index fund strategies, incorporating factors such as sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations, will also shape future market trends.

China's main stock market index, the SHANGHAI, rose to 3883 points on September 30, 2025, gaining 0.52% from the previous session. Over the past month, the index has climbed 0.19% and is up 11.26% compared to the same time last year, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks this benchmark index from China. China Shanghai Composite Stock Market Index - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on October of 2025.

Passive ETF Market Outlook

In 2023, the global Passive ETF market size was valued at approximately USD 6.1 trillion and is projected to reach USD 11.4 trillion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.2% over the forecast period. The primary growth factor for this market is the increasing preference for low-cost investment options among retail and institutional investors alike.

One of the significant growth factors driving the Passive ETF market is the rise in awareness and education about financial markets among retail investors. More individuals are becoming informed about the benefits of diversified, low-cost investment portfolios. Passive ETFs, which typically track a specific index, offer a cost-effective way for investors to gain broad market exposure without the need for intensive management. This factor is particularly appealing to new investors who wish to participate in the stock market with minimal fees and reduced risk.

Another critical driver is the surge in technological advancements and digitalization in financial services. Online trading platforms and robo-advisors are making it easier for investors to access a wide array of ETF products. These platforms often provide tools and resources that help investors make informed decisions, thereby encouraging more people to invest in Passive ETFs. The ease of use, coupled with low transaction costs, has further popularized Passive ETFs among various investor segments.

Institutional investors are also increasingly turning to Passive ETFs to optimize their investment strategies. With market volatility and economic uncertainties, institutional investors seek stable and predictable investment solutions. Passive ETFs offer a reliable way to achieve market returns without the need to actively manage individual securities. This stability is particularly important for pension funds, endowments, and insurance companies, which have long-term investment horizons and fiduciary responsibilities to their beneficiaries.

Regionally, North America continues to dominate the Passive ETF market, owing to its mature financial markets and large base of institutional and retail investors. However, other regions like Asia Pacific are catching up rapidly. The growing middle class, rising disposable incomes, and increasing financial literacy are significant factors contributing to the market's growth in this region. Additionally, favorable regulatory changes and the introduction of innovative financial products are expected to drive the market further in Asia Pacific.

Type Analysis

In the Passive ETF market, various types, including Equity ETFs, Bond ETFs, Commodity ETFs, Real Estate ETFs, and others, offer diverse investment opportunities. Equity ETFs hold the largest market share, primarily due to their ability to provide broad exposure to stock markets, mirroring the performance of major indices like the S&P 500 or the NASDAQ. As investors seek to capitalize on market growth while minimizing costs, the demand for Equity ETFs continues to rise. They are particularly popular among retail investors looking to gain diversified exposure to the equity market without picking individual stocks.

Bond ETFs are another critical segment within the Passive ETF market, offering investors a way to gain exposure to the fixed income market. These ETFs are essential for those looking to balance their portfolios with more stable, income-generating investments. Bond ETFs can provide access to government, corporate, and municipal bonds. The predictable income stream and lower risk compared to equities make Bond ETFs a favorite among conservative investors and retirees. Additionally, in a low-interest-rate environment, Bond ETFs become even more attractive as they offer better returns compared to traditional savings accounts.

Commodity ETFs cater to investors looking to diversify their portfolios with tangible assets like gold, silver, oil, and other commodities. These ETFs provide a convenient way to invest in commodities without the complexities involved in holding physical assets. Commodity ETFs are particularly popular during times of economic uncertainty and inflation, as they often serve as a hedge against market volatility and currency devaluation. The demand for these ETFs is expected to grow as investors seek more avenues to protect their wealth.

Real Estate ETFs provide exposure to the real estate market by investing in a diversified portfolio of real estate investment trusts (REITs). These ETFs offer a way to participate in the real estate market without th

Russia's main stock market index, the MOEX, rose to 2663 points on October 7, 2025, gaining 0.54% from the previous session. Over the past month, the index has declined 8.86% and is down 4.50% compared to the same time last year, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks this benchmark index from Russia. Russia Stock Market Index MOEX CFD - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on October of 2025.

Japan's main stock market index, the JP225, rose to 47984 points on October 8, 2025, gaining 0.07% from the previous session. Over the past month, the index has climbed 10.41% and is up 22.17% compared to the same time last year, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks this benchmark index from Japan. Japan Stock Market Index (JP225) - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on October of 2025.

The S&P 500, an index of 500 publicly traded companies in the United States, closed at ******** points on the last trading day of December 2024. What is the S&P 500? The S&P 500 is a stock market index that tracks the evolution of 500 companies. In contrast to the Dow Jones Industrial Index, which measures the performance of thirty large U.S. companies, the S&P 500 shows the sentiments in the broader market. Publicly traded companies Companies on the S&P 500 are publicly traded, meaning that anyone can invest in them. A large share of adults in the United States invest in the stock market, though many of these are through a retirement account or mutual fund. While most people make a modest return, the most successful investors have made billions of U.S. dollars through investing.

An index that can be used to gauge broad financial conditions and assess how these conditions are related to future economic growth. The index is broadly consistent with how the FRB/US model generally relates key financial variables to economic activity. The index aggregates changes in seven financial variables: the federal funds rate, the 10-year Treasury yield, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate, the triple-B corporate bond yield, the Dow Jones total stock market index, the Zillow house price index, and the nominal broad dollar index using weights implied by the FRB/US model and other models in use at the Federal Reserve Board. These models relate households' spending and businesses' investment decisions to changes in short- and long-term interest rates, house and equity prices, and the exchange value of the dollar, among other factors. These financial variables are weighted using impulse response coefficients (dynamic multipliers) that quantify the cumulative effects of unanticipated permanent changes in each financial variable on real gross domestic product (GDP) growth over the subsequent year. The resulting index is named Financial Conditions Impulse on Growth (FCI-G). One appealing feature of the FCI-G is that its movements can be used to measure whether financial conditions have tightened or loosened, to summarize how changes in financial conditions are associated with real GDP growth over the following year, or both.

The Commodity Index Funds market has emerged as a pivotal segment within the broader investment landscape, providing investors with a unique means to gain exposure to commodity price movements without the need for direct ownership of physical assets. Commodity index funds function by tracking a specific index compos

The size of the Middle East And Africa ETF Market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 9.00">> 9.00% during the forecast period. The ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund) market refers to the financial industry focused on creating, managing, and trading ETFs, which are investment funds that track the performance of a specific index, sector, commodity, or asset class. ETFs combine the diversification of mutual funds with the liquidity and convenience of stocks, allowing investors to buy or sell shares throughout the trading day at market prices. This industry is a key segment of the broader financial markets and has grown rapidly due to its accessibility, cost efficiency, and flexibility for both retail and institutional investors. ETFs are often classified based on the assets they track, such as equities, bonds, commodities, or currencies. The ETF market offers a wide variety of products, including index-based ETFs, which mirror well-known indices like the S&P 500, sector-specific ETFs that focus on industries like technology or healthcare, and thematic ETFs, which center around global trends like clean energy or artificial intelligence. These products are usually managed by large financial institutions like BlackRock, Vanguard, and State Street Global Advisors. Recent developments include: In March 2024, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and HSBC Bank have entered into a partnership to expand the availability of digital fixed-income securities in the capital markets of the region. In collaboration with HSBC, ADX will investigate a framework that would allow digital assets, such digital bonds, to be listed on ADX and accessible via HSBC Orion, the bank's digital assets platform., In September 2023, the Ministry of Investment signed agreements with Al-Rajhi Bank, Alinma Bank, and Banque Saudi Fransi to strengthen the position of the digital banking industry and aid these institutions provide investors with better service.. Key drivers for this market are: Decline in Cost of Service Providers, Availiblity of New distribution platform in the region. Potential restraints include: Market Saturation (lack of Availiblity of new asset class), Extreme market events increasing risk associate with ETF, dampening their demand.. Notable trends are: Equity ETFs a Gateway to Diversified Exposure in the Region's Stock Markets.

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the Board's emergency lending facilities have provided a critical backstop. The Board launched a centralized 13(3) Lending Facilities Data Repository on November 6, 2020 to bring together the emergency lending facilities data from different systems and databases. The Federal Reserve established the Secondary Market Corporate Credit Facility (SMCCF) on March 23, 2020, to support credit to employers by providing liquidity to the market for outstanding corporate bonds. The SMCCF supports market liquidity by purchasing in the secondary market corporate bonds issued by investment grade U.S. companies or certain U.S. companies that were investment grade as of March 22, 2020, as well as U.S.-listed exchange-traded funds whose investment objective is to provide broad exposure to the market for U.S. corporate bonds. The SMCCF's purchases of corporate bonds will create a portfolio that tracks a broad, diversified market index of U.S. corporate bonds. The Treasury, using funds appropriated to the ESF through the CARES Act, will make an equity investment in an SPV established by the Federal Reserve for the SMCCF and the Primary Market Corporate Credit Facility. The SMCCF ceased purchasing eligible assets on December 31, 2020.

The ESG Wealth Management Product market is projected to experience robust growth, with an estimated market size of $850 million in 2025, expanding at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% through 2033. This significant expansion is driven by increasing investor demand for sustainable and ethical investment options, coupled with a growing awareness of the financial benefits associated with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) integration. Key growth drivers include evolving regulatory landscapes that encourage ESG adoption, a heightened focus on corporate social responsibility, and the demonstrable resilience of ESG-focused portfolios during market volatility. Furthermore, the rising prominence of ESG factors in investment decision-making, alongside the increasing availability of sophisticated ESG data and analytics, are empowering investors to align their financial goals with their personal values. The market is segmented into various product types, with ESG Equity Funds and ESG Index Funds anticipated to lead in terms of adoption and market share due to their accessibility and broad appeal. ESG Bond Funds are also showing considerable promise as investors seek to finance projects with positive social and environmental impacts. In terms of application, Risk Management and Invest and Manage Finances are primary drivers, highlighting how ESG principles are being integrated not only for ethical reasons but also for enhancing portfolio performance and mitigating long-term risks. Leading companies such as BlackRock, Calvert Investments, and Vanguard are at the forefront of this market, offering innovative ESG solutions and shaping investment strategies. Geographically, North America and Europe are expected to dominate the market, driven by strong investor education, supportive regulatory frameworks, and a mature wealth management ecosystem. Here is a unique report description for an ESG Wealth Management Product report, incorporating your specified requirements: