How ETF Focus Cuts Through Wall Street Noise With Unbiased Research
How an Independent Analyst Monetized His Newsletter While Preserving Editorial Integrity With beehiiv
Table of contents
Situation:
ETF Focus, founded by independent analyst David Dierking, was created to provide transparent, unbiased ETF research amid a landscape dominated by sponsored content and hidden agendas. Dierking’s goal was to democratize investment insights and offer guidance to investors regardless of their net worth.
Challenge:
Operating as a solo creator unaffiliated with financial institutions, Dierking needed a way to monetize his newsletter without compromising editorial integrity or taking time away from content creation. Sustainable growth required a passive, scalable revenue model.
Solution:
In June 2024, ETF Focus joined the beehiiv Ad Network, enabling Dierking to run newsletter ads with minimal effort. The platform provided a seamless, low-maintenance way to generate revenue, align with mission-driven advertisers, and cross-promote with like-minded finance newsletters.
Results:
- Earned hundreds of dollars per month in passive ad revenue
- Maintained full editorial control while supporting newsletter growth
- Partnered with advertisers like Betterment, with eyes on Vanguard and Schwab
- Reinvested earnings into content and audience growth
As Dierking shared: “Even a couple of ads a month can generate the income that helps improve your newsletter, grow your audience, and continue to spread your message.”
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