Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics are shaping the future. From self-driving cars to industrial automation, AI and robotics technologies are becoming critical drivers of growth. If you’re looking to invest in this revolution, AI & Robotics ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) offer an easy, diversified, and high-potential option.
In this article, we’ll explore the best Robotics and AI ETFs to invest in 2025, including picks suitable for Indian investors and global opportunities.
🤖 Why Invest in Robotics & AI ETFs in 2025?
AI and Robotics are no longer futuristic—they’re mainstream. The global AI market is projected to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2030, while robotics is transforming industries like manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare.
Key Reasons to Invest:
- High growth potential in emerging and mature economies
- Diversified exposure to top AI and robotics companies
- Passive investment with lower risk compared to individual stocks
- Ideal for long-term wealth creation
🇮🇳 Best AI & Robotics ETFs Available for Indian Investors
Although India doesn’t yet have many direct AI-themed ETFs, Indian investors can gain exposure through international ETFs via mutual funds or overseas trading accounts.
1. ICICI Prudential Nasdaq 100 ETF
- Focus: Top 100 Nasdaq-listed companies (includes AI leaders like NVIDIA, Amazon, Alphabet)
- Why Invest: Indirect exposure to AI/tech giants; suitable for SIPs
- Expense Ratio: ~0.50%
- Returns (5-Year CAGR): ~22%
2. Motilal Oswal NASDAQ Q50 ETF
- Focus: Next-generation tech stocks poised to enter NASDAQ 100
- Why Invest: Exposure to future AI disruptors
- Best For: Medium to long-term investors seeking futuristic growth
3. Edelweiss US Technology Equity Fund of Fund
- Focus: Invests in JPMorgan US Technology Fund
- Why Invest: Includes robotics, AI, and automation-focused tech leaders
- Mode: Mutual fund route for AI exposure
🌍 Top Global Robotics & AI ETFs (Available to Indian Investors via International Platforms)
For those comfortable investing abroad through platforms like Vested, INDMoney, or Zerodha’s international partners, here are global ETFs to consider:
1. Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF (BOTZ)
- Ticker: BOTZ
- Expense Ratio: 0.68%
- Top Holdings: NVIDIA, Intuitive Surgical, ABB, Keyence
- Why Invest: Focused purely on companies developing AI-driven robots, automation tools, and semiconductors.
2. iShares Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Multisector ETF (IRBO)
- Ticker: IRBO
- Expense Ratio: 0.47%
- Top Holdings: UiPath, CrowdStrike, Palantir
- Why Invest: More diversified than BOTZ; equally weighted portfolio of AI and robotics innovators
3. ROBO Global Robotics and Automation ETF (ROBO)
- Ticker: ROBO
- Expense Ratio: 0.95%
- Top Holdings: Zebra Technologies, Cognex, Brooks Automation
- Why Invest: One of the most balanced and global-focused robotics ETFs
4. ARK Autonomous Technology & Robotics ETF (ARKQ)
- Ticker: ARKQ
- Managed By: Cathie Wood’s ARK Invest
- Focus: Tesla, 3D printing, autonomous vehicles, AI
- Why Invest: Aggressive growth ETF with high exposure to cutting-edge tech
5. First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF (ROBT)
- Ticker: ROBT
- Expense Ratio: 0.65%
- Why Invest: Based on the Nasdaq CTA AI & Robotics Index; more balanced and rules-based investing
📌 Quick Comparison Table
| ETF Name | Ticker | Focus Area | Expense Ratio | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOTZ | BOTZ | Industrial robotics & AI | 0.68% | Focused investors |
| IRBO | IRBO | Broad AI exposure | 0.47% | Beginners |
| ROBO | ROBO | Robotics & automation | 0.95% | Diversified approach |
| ARKQ | ARKQ | Disruptive AI tech | 0.75% | Aggressive investors |
| ROBT | ROBT | Nasdaq AI index | 0.65% | Balanced growth |
📈 What to Look for Before Investing in AI & Robotics ETFs
When selecting an ETF, keep these points in mind:
1. Expense Ratio
Lower the ratio, better the long-term compounding effect.
2. Geographic Exposure
Some ETFs are U.S.-centric, while others have global diversification.
3. Top Holdings
Understand whether the fund is focused on hardware (robotics) or software (AI/ML companies).
4. Performance History
Past performance isn’t a guarantee but offers clues about fund quality.
5. Liquidity
Ensure the ETF has enough trading volume if you’re using a global investing platform.
💡 Pro Tips for Indian Investors
- Use LRS (Liberalized Remittance Scheme) to legally invest up to $250,000 abroad.
- Choose mutual fund FoFs if you’re not confident with global brokers.
- Start with a small SIP in tech-focused ETFs like Nasdaq 100 for AI exposure.
- Use platforms like INDmoney, Groww (Global), Vested for international ETFs.
- Track global AI trends on sites like Bloomberg, Seeking Alpha, or Finviz.
🙋 FAQs About Robotics & AI ETFs
1. Can I invest in global AI ETFs from India?
Yes. You can invest using platforms like Vested, INDmoney, or via LRS through your bank.
2. Are there India-based AI ETFs?
Currently, there are no direct AI/robotics ETFs in India, but mutual funds offer indirect exposure through US tech indices.
3. What’s the minimum investment for these ETFs?
For Indian mutual funds: ₹500 SIP.
For global ETFs: As low as $10 depending on the broker (fractional investing supported).
4. Are AI ETFs good for long-term investing?
Yes. AI and robotics are long-term growth themes. ETFs offer diversified exposure and reduce stock-specific risk.
5. Do AI ETFs pay dividends?
Some do (like BOTZ and IRBO), but most reinvest gains. Always check the fund’s dividend policy.
6. Is it better to invest in stocks or ETFs for AI?
ETFs offer safety through diversification. Beginners should start with ETFs before picking individual AI stocks.
🏁 Conclusion: Start Your AI Investment Journey Today!
The world is moving towards a future powered by automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence. By investing in the best Robotics and AI ETFs, you’re not just participating in a trend—you’re owning a piece of the future.
Whether you choose Indian routes like NASDAQ 100 ETFs or go global with BOTZ or ROBO, now is the right time to start investing for long-term growth.
👉 Want to get started?
Explore mutual fund platforms or international investing apps today, and make AI work for your financial future!
