Final answer:
The main difference between structured products and ETNs is the credit risk, with structured products having credit risk related to the derivatives components and issuers' obligations, while ETNs carry credit risk linked to the issuer's solvency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principal difference between a structured product and an Exchange-Traded Note (ETN) is c credit risk. A structured product is a pre-packaged investment strategy which includes derivatives components and has its credit risk linked to the issuer’s financial health. In contrast, ETNs are unsecured debt securities that have the credit risk associated with the solvency of the issuer, similar to bonds. ETNs track an underlying index and pay a return based on the performance of that index, minus fees. Should the issuer face financial difficulties, ETN investors may lose some or all of their investment. In contrast, the credit risk in structured products arises from their built-in derivatives and the issuer's ability to meet contractual obligations.