The rapid evolution of technology continues to reshape industries, economies, and daily life—and at the forefront of this transformation are robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). These two interconnected fields are not only redefining automation and machine learning but also unlocking new investment opportunities for forward-thinking individuals.
For investors seeking diversified exposure to this high-growth sector, Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) focused on robotics and AI offer a strategic way to participate in the innovation wave without betting on individual stocks. Below, we explore five of the most compelling robotics and AI ETFs, analyzing their structure, performance, and unique advantages.
Top Robotics and AI ETFs for 2025
These funds have been selected based on their net assets, expense ratios, historical performance, and strategic focus on disruptive technologies. Rankings are determined by fund size as of the latest available data.
1. ARK Autonomous Technology & Robotics ETF (ARKQ)
The ARKQ ETF, managed by ARK Invest, is an actively managed fund targeting companies poised to benefit from breakthroughs in autonomous transportation, robotics, AI, 3D printing, and energy storage. Known for its bold investment philosophy, ARK Invest focuses exclusively on disruptive innovation.
Key Holdings:
- Tesla Inc. (TSLA)
- Teradyne Inc. (TER)
- Kratos Defense & Security (KTOS)
- Iridium Communications Inc. (IRDM)
- Trimble Inc. (TRMB)
Performance Snapshot:
- Net Assets: ~$800 million
- Expense Ratio: 0.75%
- 1-Year Return: -2.10%
- 3-Year Return: -13.65%
- 5-Year Return: 10.66%
Why ARKQ Stands Out:
- Active Management Advantage: Unlike passive index funds, ARKQ benefits from real-time portfolio adjustments based on emerging trends and technological shifts.
- Innovation-Centric Strategy: The fund prioritizes companies leading in autonomy and intelligent systems.
- Proven Track Record in Disruption: ARK Invest has gained recognition for early bets on transformative technologies like electric vehicles and genomics.
Launched in September 2014, ARKQ remains a go-to choice for investors who believe in high-risk, high-reward innovation plays.
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2. Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF (BOTZ)
The BOTZ ETF offers targeted exposure to global companies involved in the development and integration of robotics and AI technologies. Managed by Global X, this fund tracks the Indxx Global Robotics & Artificial Intelligence Thematic Index.
Key Holdings:
- NVIDIA Corp. (NVDA)
- ABB Ltd. (ABB SW)
- Keyence Corp. (6861 JP)
- SMC Corp. (6273 JP)
- Fanuc Corp. (6954 JP)
Performance Snapshot:
- Net Assets: ~$2.82 billion
- Expense Ratio: 0.68%
- 1-Year Return: 7.74%
- 3-Year Return: -3.93%
- 5-Year Return: 8.52%
Why BOTZ Stands Out:
- Pure-Play Focus: BOTZ avoids general tech exposure, concentrating solely on robotics and AI innovators.
- Geographic Diversity: With significant weight in Japanese and Swiss firms, it provides international balance.
- Industrial Automation Leadership: Many holdings are leaders in factory automation, sensors, and precision engineering.
Since its launch in 2016, BOTZ has become one of the most widely held thematic ETFs in the AI space.
3. Vanguard Information Technology ETF (VGT)
While not exclusively focused on robotics or AI, the VGT ETF offers substantial indirect exposure through its large-cap technology portfolio. As one of the largest tech ETFs globally, it includes many companies driving AI advancements.
Key Holdings:
- Apple Inc. (AAPL)
- Microsoft Corp. (MSFT)
- NVIDIA Corp. (NVDA)
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO)
- Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD)
Performance Snapshot:
- Net Assets: ~$87.6 billion
- Expense Ratio: 0.10%
- 1-Year Return: 31.25%
- 3-Year Return: 13.96%
- 5-Year Return: 23.34%
Why VGT Stands Out:
- Low-Cost Access to Tech Giants: With the lowest expense ratio on this list, VGT is ideal for cost-conscious investors.
- AI Infrastructure Exposure: Companies like Microsoft and NVIDIA are foundational to cloud-based AI development.
- Market Stability: Its large-cap bias provides relative stability compared to niche thematic funds.
Launched in 2004, VGT combines longevity with consistent performance, making it a core holding for many portfolios.
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4. ROBO Global Robotics and Automation Index ETF (ROBO)
The ROBO ETF is designed to capture the full spectrum of robotics and automation innovation across geographies and market caps. It tracks an equal-weighted index, ensuring no single stock dominates the fund.
Key Holdings:
- Novanta Inc. (NOVT)
- Harmonic Drive Systems Inc. (6324 JP)
- Rockwell Automation Inc. (ROK)
- Zebra Technologies Corp. (ZBRA)
- Intuitive Surgical Inc. (ISRG)
Performance Snapshot:
- Net Assets: ~$1.25 billion
- Expense Ratio: 0.95%
- 1-Year Return: -5.45%
- 3-Year Return: -5.36%
- 5-Year Return: 6.82%
Why ROBO Stands Out:
- Equal Weighting Strategy: Prevents overconcentration and promotes balanced growth potential.
- Broad Industry Coverage: Includes healthcare robotics, industrial automation, and supply chain innovation.
- Global Innovation Focus: Targets cutting-edge firms beyond just the U.S., including Japanese precision tech leaders.
Since its 2013 debut, ROBO has established itself as a comprehensive play on the future of automation.
5. iShares Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Multisector ETF (IRBO)
The IRBO ETF, managed by iShares, offers diversified exposure across multiple sectors where robotics and AI are being applied—from software to semiconductors to consumer services.
Key Holdings:
- Sirius XM Holdings Inc. (SIRI)
- ARM Holdings (ARM)
- Cognex Corp. (CGNX)
- Adobe Inc. (ADBE)
- Hello Group Inc. (MOMO)
Performance Snapshot:
- Net Assets: ~$686 million
- Expense Ratio: 0.47%
- 1-Year Return: 1.89%
- 3-Year Return: -8.20%
- 5-Year Return: 7.18%
Why IRBO Stands Out:
- Cost-Efficient Structure: One of the lowest fees among specialized AI ETFs.
- Multisector Diversification: Reduces risk by spreading investments across industries.
- Global Reach: Includes companies from the U.S., China, Japan, and Europe.
Launched in 2018, IRBO has quickly gained traction among investors seeking balanced access to AI-driven transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the difference between a robotics ETF and an AI ETF?
A: While often grouped together, robotics ETFs focus on physical machines and automation systems, whereas AI ETFs emphasize software, machine learning algorithms, and data processing technologies. Many funds, like BOTZ and IRBO, combine both for broader exposure.
Q: Are robotics and AI ETFs risky?
A: Yes—these are thematic investments tied to fast-moving technologies. They can be volatile in the short term but offer strong long-term growth potential if adoption accelerates.
Q: Which ETF has the best historical return?
A: Among those listed, VGT leads with a 5-year return of 23.34%, thanks to its exposure to dominant tech giants driving AI integration at scale.
Q: Can I invest in AI through a low-cost index fund?
A: Absolutely—VGT offers AI exposure with a minimal 0.10% expense ratio, making it one of the most affordable ways to gain entry into this space.
Q: Should I choose an actively or passively managed ETF?
A: Active funds like ARKQ allow dynamic responses to innovation trends but come with higher fees. Passive funds like BOTZ or IRBO track indexes with lower costs and more predictable holdings.
Final Thoughts
Robotics and artificial intelligence are no longer futuristic concepts—they're active forces reshaping manufacturing, healthcare, finance, transportation, and more. Investing in specialized ETFs allows individuals to harness this momentum with built-in diversification and professional management.
Whether you prefer the aggressive innovation focus of ARKQ, the balanced global approach of IRBO, or the stability of VGT’s tech giant exposure, there's a suitable option for every investor profile.
As these technologies continue to mature, early adopters may stand to benefit significantly—making now a strategic time to evaluate your position in this evolving landscape.
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