Launched on December 16, 1998, the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLP) is a passively managed exchange traded fund designed to provide a broad exposure to the Consumer Staples - Broad segment of the equity market.Passively managed ETFs are becoming increasingly popular with institutional as well as retail investors due to their low cost, transparency, flexibility and tax efficiency. They are excellent vehicles for long term investors.Additionally, sector ETFs offer convenient ways to gain low risk ...