5 top AI ETFs: Funds leading the AI revolution

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Originally published at: https://blog.investengine.com/5-top-ai-etfs-funds-leading-the-ai-revolution/

Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant idea. It’s here, powering everything from search engines and medical diagnostics to logistics and financial tools. As adoption spreads, investors are looking for smart, accessible ways to take part in the growth of AI. One of the simplest options? AI focused ETFs.

In this guide, we’ll break down what AI ETFs are, why they’re gaining attention, and which ones are worth considering right now. Whether you’re new to investing or looking to add a forward looking theme to your portfolio, these expert picked ETFs offer a range of ways to gain exposure to one of the defining technologies of our time.

What is an AI ETF?

An AI ETF is an investment fund that holds a basket of shares linked to artificial intelligence. These usually include companies that are developing AI technologies like machine learning software, robotics and natural language processing. They can also feature businesses using AI to improve their products or operations, along with those creating the key hardware and infrastructure that make AI possible.

Why invest in AI through ETFs?

Investing directly in individual AI companies can be challenging. The sector moves quickly, competition is intense, and it can be difficult to identify which companies will thrive.

That’s where AI ETFs come in.

By investing through an ETF, you gain exposure to a wide range of companies involved in AI, all within a single investment. This helps spread risk, as you’re not relying on the success of one business. It also makes it easier to tap into the broader AI trend without needing to constantly research and rebalance your portfolio.

Many AI ETFs are designed to track the most innovative or impactful companies in the space, whether they are building core technologies, applying AI in powerful ways, or enabling its growth through computing infrastructure.

AI ETFs offer a convenient, lower maintenance way to invest in the future of AI while reducing some of the risks that come with picking individual stocks.

The 5 top AI ETFs* to consider in 2025

With dozens of AI themed ETFs now available, it can be hard to separate smart choices from hype. This shortlist highlights five standout options offering well constructed exposure to the companies shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

Each takes a slightly different approach, whether focusing on pure play innovators, global diversification or a mix of AI with robotics and big data.

*This list of ‘Top ETFs’ is based on the most held AI ETFs on InvestEngine’s platform. Top ETFs have been calculated by most bought (by number of clients) between July 2024 and July 2025. 

L&G Artificial Intelligence ETF (Ticker: AIAG)

Provider: Legal & General Investment Management
Strategy: Passive ETF tracking the ROBO Global Artificial Intelligence Index, designed to target companies with direct and meaningful exposure to AI technology

Why consider it:

  • Offers a diversified mix of companies that are actively developing or enabling AI, not just using it
  • Based on a specialist AI index with a transparent rules-based approach
  • Includes a global spread of companies, with strong US exposure balanced by other developed markets
Key Details
Launched July 2019
Fund Size Approx. £563 million
Ongoing Charges 0.49%
Dividend Type Accumulating
Region Focus ~75% US, global

WisdomTree Artificial Intelligence UCITS ETF (Ticker: INTL)

Provider: WisdomTree
Strategy: Passive fund tracking the Nasdaq CTA Artificial Intelligence Index, covering companies across the AI value chain including enablers, enhancers and end users

Why consider it:

  • Focuses on firms with real AI-related revenue, rather than just tech giants
  • Limits individual stock weightings to avoid overconcentration
  • Offers global exposure, with a strong presence in US semiconductors and international AI leaders
Key Details
Launched December 2018
Fund Size Approx. £635 million
Ongoing Charges 0.40%
Dividend Type Accumulating
Region Focus ~66% North America, global

Xtrackers Artificial Intelligence & Big Data UCITS ETF (Ticker: XAIX)

Provider: Xtrackers (DWS)
Strategy: Passive fund tracking the Nasdaq Global Artificial Intelligence & Big Data Index. Targets companies with meaningful exposure to AI, big data and cybersecurity, using physical replication and semi annual rebalancing.

Why consider it:

  • Combines AI exposure with big data and cybersecurity, broadening the thematic reach
  • ESG screened with stock weight caps to help manage risk and avoid overconcentration
  • Accumulating structure makes it suitable for long term investors focused on growth
  • One of the most cost effective AI ETFs available in the UK market
Key Details
Launched January 2019
Fund Size Approx. £2.7 billion
Ongoing Charges 0.35%
Dividend Type Accumulating
Region Focus ~84% North America, global

iShares Automation and Robotics (Ticker: RBTX)

Provider: iShares (BlackRock)
Strategy: Passive ETF tracking the STOXX Global Automation & Robotics Index, which includes companies driving innovation in robotics, automation, and related technologies across developed and emerging markets.

Why consider it:

  • Offers direct exposure to companies benefiting from long term automation and robotics adoption trends.
  • Broad global diversification, with strong allocations to North America, Europe, and Japan.
  • Balanced sector mix, with leading positions in industrials and technology.
Key Details
Launched September 2016
Fund Size Approx. £2.8 billion
Ongoing Charges 0.40%
Dividend Type Accumulating
Region Focus ~53% North America, ~20% Europe ex-UK, ~13% Japan, global

ARK Artificial Intelligence & Robotics UCITS ETF (Ticker: ARCI)

Provider: ARK Invest
Strategy: Actively managed fund investing globally in companies involved in AI, robotics, automation and autonomous technology. The portfolio is built using ARK’s internal research rather than tracking an index.

Why consider it:

  • Focused on high growth, innovative companies leading the development of AI and automation
  • Actively managed by ARK’s research team, offering a more dynamic approach than typical index tracking ETFs
  • ESG-screened and physically replicated for transparency
  • Suitable for investors looking for a high conviction strategy in emerging tech
Key Details
Launched April 2024
Fund Size Approx. £42 million
Ongoing Charges 0.75%
Dividend Type Accumulating
Region Focus ~68% North America, global

Comparing the top 5 AI ETFs side by side

Each of these ETFs offers a different route into the world of AI investing. Some take a broad approach across sectors and regions, while others focus more narrowly on specific technologies or themes like robotics or big data. Here’s how they compare on key features:

ETF Name Ticker Strategy TER Dividend Type Launched Region Focus Fund Size
L&G Artificial Intelligence UCITS ETF AIAG Passive (ROBO) 0.49% Accumulating Jul 2019 ~75% US, global ~£563m
WisdomTree Artificial Intelligence ETF INTL Passive (Nasdaq) 0.40% Accumulating Dec 2018 ~66% US, global ~£635m
Xtrackers AI & Big Data UCITS ETF XAIX Passive (Nasdaq) 0.35% Accumulating Jan 2019 ~84% US, global ~£2.7bn
iShares Automation and Robotics RBTX Passive (STOXX) 0.40% Accumulating Sep 2016 ~53% North America, ~20% Europe ex-UK, ~13% Japan, global ~£2.8bn
ARK AI & Robotics UCITS ETF ARCI / ARKI Active 0.75% Accumulating Apr 2024 ~68% US, global ~£42m

Honourable mentions: more AI & tech ETFs worth a look

Our “Top 5” list covers some of the most popular AI focused ETFs, but it’s not the whole story. There are a few other funds available on our platform that might suit different goals, especially if you’d like to broaden your exposure beyond pure AI or robotics.

VanEck Vectors Semiconductor ETF (SMGB)

Focuses on the semiconductor companies that power AI and advanced computing. A more concentrated way to invest in one of the key building blocks of the AI revolution.

Amundi MSCI Semiconductors ESG Filtered ETF (SEMG)

Similar semiconductor exposure, but with an ESG tilt. A good choice if you want growth potential and sustainability factors.

iShares MSCI Global Semiconductors ETF (SEMI)

Takes a broader global view, combining US chip leaders with major names from Taiwan, South Korea and Europe.

Risks and considerations when investing in top AI ETFs

While AI ETFs offer exposure to an exciting sector, here are a few key risks investors should keep in mind:

  • Ups and downs: The AI market can be unpredictable, with share prices rising and falling quickly as trends shift.
  • Early stage companies: The AI industry is still evolving. Some of the businesses in these funds are still developing and might take time to become profitable.
  • Tech heavy exposure: Many AI ETFs are concentrated in the tech sector, so they can be affected by changes in interest rates or wider market sentiment.
  • Loose definitions: Not every company in an AI ETF is deeply involved in AI, so it’s worth checking what’s actually inside.
  • Big name bias: A few large tech companies often make up a big slice of the fund, which can limit the variety you’re getting.

As always, make sure any investment fits your own goals, timeline and comfort with risk.

How to choose the right AI ETF for you

Not all AI ETFs are built the same. Some prioritise growth, others focus on cost or diversification. Before investing, it’s worth taking a closer look at what each fund offers, and how well it matches your wider portfolio and long term plans:

1. Define your objective

Are you investing for long-term growth, thematic exposure, or portfolio diversification?

2. Look at regional exposure

Some ETFs are heavily weighted towards US companies, while others offer a more global balance.

  • If your portfolio already leans towards the US, choosing a fund with broader international exposure may help improve diversification.
  • For example, the iShares Automation and Robotics ETF includes meaningful allocations to Japan and Europe alongside its US positions, offering a more geographically balanced approach than some AI-only funds.

3. Understand the ETF’s focus

AI ETFs vary in what they target. Some focus on companies developing AI technology, others on those applying AI in their operations, and some include related themes like robotics and big data.

  • Reviewing the index and top holdings can help you see whether the fund aligns with your expectations.

4. Compare ongoing charges

Even small differences in fees can affect returns over time.

  • Passive ETFs typically have lower ongoing charges
  • Actively managed funds often cost more but may offer greater potential upside, if the manager gets it right

5. Choose between active and passive

Passive funds track an index and are often simpler and cheaper. Active funds are more flexible but come with higher costs and greater reliance on the manager’s decisions.

  • Choose passive for low cost, broad exposure
  • Choose active if you want a more selective, research driven approach

Why use InvestEngine to buy top AI ETFs

InvestEngine is a straightforward, low cost platform designed specifically for ETF investors. Here’s why it’s a strong option for buying AI ETFs:

  • No trading fees: Buy and sell ETFs commission free (ETF costs apply)
  • Wide selection: Access to all the top AI ETFs covered in this article
  • Flexible accounts: Invest through an ISA, SIPP or general investment account
  • Low minimums: Start from just £1 per ETF
  • Easy to use: Simple tools for building and managing your portfolio

Final Thoughts

Artificial intelligence is more than a passing trend, it’s a long term shift that’s already reshaping industries and creating new opportunities. AI ETFs offer a practical way to invest in that growth without needing to pick individual winners.

Whether you prefer a low-cost global tracker or a more focused, actively managed approach, the right ETF can help you tap into the AI revolution in a way that fits your goals. As always, take time to understand what you’re investing in, keep an eye on costs, and make sure any ETF complements your wider portfolio.

The AI era is just getting started and, with the right tools, you can be part of it.

Important information

Capital at risk. The value of your investments may go down as well as up, and you may get back less than you invest. 

ETF costs apply. If in doubt, you may wish to consult a professional adviser for guidance.

Tax treatment depends on your personal circumstances and may change in future. This article is for general information only and does not constitute financial advice.