Clean energy ETF QCLN gains as 2026 US elections raise hopes for green policies

The First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Green Energy Index Fund ETF (QCLN) has outperformed major benchmarks like the S&P 500 over the past year, driven by expectations of favorable U.S. federal clean energy policies tied to the 2026 midterm elections. Historically, the ETF's underlying index spikes with Democratic political momentum and major climate legislation. With increasing chances of Democratic control in Congress and the presidency, investors anticipate aggressive climate policies that could boost QCLN's performance further.