US Robotics ETFs: Unlocking Automation Growth for Your Portfolio in 2025

Introduction: The Rise of Robotics and Automation in the United States (2025)

The integration of robotics and automation into everyday life and industry is no longer a distant vision-it’s happening now. Across manufacturing floors, medical centers, logistics hubs, and even homes, intelligent machines are redefining how work gets done and how services are delivered. In 2025, the United States continues to lead in innovation, with major advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics engineering fueling widespread adoption. From AI-driven factory arms to autonomous delivery drones and robotic surgical systems, automation is transforming efficiency, precision, and scalability.

For American investors, this shift isn’t just technological-it’s financial. As businesses across sectors invest heavily in automation to stay competitive, a powerful growth trend is emerging. Robotics ETFs offer a strategic way for U.S. investors to gain diversified exposure to this transformation without having to pick individual winners in a fast-evolving landscape.

What Are Robotics ETFs and How Do They Work?

Robotics Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) pool investor capital to buy a diversified basket of stocks from companies involved in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence. These funds are designed to track a specific index or theme, giving investors broad access to the sector with a single trade. Instead of researching dozens of tech firms individually, investors can buy one ETF that spreads risk across hardware developers, software engineers, AI researchers, and industrial adopters.

Unlike individual stocks, which can swing dramatically on company-specific news, robotics ETFs smooth out volatility through diversification. A single fund might include semiconductor manufacturers powering AI chips, surgical robotics firms, logistics automation providers, and companies building autonomous systems. This structure allows investors to benefit from the sector’s overall growth while minimizing exposure to any one company’s failure.

Why Invest in Robotics ETFs in the US for 2025?

The case for investing in robotics ETFs in 2025 is rooted in long-term structural shifts reshaping the U.S. and global economy. Rising labor costs, supply chain pressures, and demand for greater efficiency are accelerating automation adoption across multiple industries. Here’s what’s driving growth:

• Industrial Automation: U.S. manufacturers are turning to robotics to improve productivity, reduce errors, and maintain competitiveness amid global supply chain disruptions. Companies in automotive, electronics, and consumer goods are deploying collaborative robots (cobots) at record rates.
• Healthcare Innovation: Robotic-assisted surgery systems like those from Intuitive Surgical are becoming standard in major hospitals. Beyond surgery, automation is streamlining lab testing, pharmacy operations, and patient monitoring.
• AI and Machine Learning Integration: Robotics is increasingly powered by AI, enabling machines to learn from data, adapt to environments, and perform complex decision-making. This convergence is expanding applications from warehouse sorting to predictive maintenance.
• Defense and Public Safety: The U.S. Department of Defense and homeland security agencies are investing in unmanned ground and aerial vehicles, surveillance robots, and autonomous systems for hazardous missions.
• Consumer and Home Applications: While still in early stages, smart home assistants, robotic vacuum cleaners, and personal care robots are gaining traction. As costs decline and capabilities improve, consumer robotics could become a mainstream market.

Together, these trends point to sustained demand for robotics and automation technologies over the next decade. For U.S. investors, robotics ETFs represent a way to participate in this innovation wave with measured risk and sector-wide exposure.

Top Robotics ETFs for United States Investors (2025)

Several ETFs give U.S. investors targeted access to the robotics and AI ecosystem. Each fund takes a slightly different approach-some focus on pure-play robotics firms, others include enabling technologies like semiconductors and software. Below are the leading options in 2025:

VanEck Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (BOTZ)

BOTZ is one of the most recognized names in the space, emphasizing companies that generate at least half their revenue from robotics and AI. It leans heavily into industrial automation and AI-powered hardware, making it a concentrated but high-conviction play.

• Key Holdings: NVIDIA, Intuitive Surgical, ABB, Keyence, Fanuc
• Performance Snapshot: Strong historical returns, closely tied to semiconductor and industrial tech cycles
• Expense Ratio: 0.35% – among the lowest for thematic tech ETFs
• Focus Areas: Industrial robotics, AI semiconductors, medical robotics

Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF (ROBO)

ROBO casts a wider net, investing in both developers and beneficiaries of robotics and AI. It includes a mix of U.S. and international firms, offering geographic diversification within the theme.

• Key Holdings: Keyence, iRobot, Fanuc, Intuitive Surgical, Zebra Technologies
• Performance Snapshot: Steady growth with moderate volatility
• Expense Ratio: 0.69%
• Focus Areas: Industrial automation, consumer robotics, AI software, logistics

iShares Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Multisector ETF (IRBO)

IRBO tracks a Nasdaq index of companies positioned to benefit from AI and robotics across multiple industries. It includes a broader range of market caps and global exposure.

• Key Holdings: NVIDIA, UiPath, KLA Corp, Rockwell Automation, Broadcom
• Performance Snapshot: Solid long-term growth, aligned with broader tech trends
• Expense Ratio: 0.47%
• Focus Areas: AI, automation software, industrial systems, semiconductors

ARK Autonomous Technology & Robotics ETF (ARKQ)

ARKQ is actively managed by ARK Invest and takes a high-conviction, innovation-driven approach. It invests in disruptive technologies including autonomous vehicles, robotics, 3D printing, and space tech.

• Key Holdings: Tesla, Trimble, Kratos Defense, AeroVironment
• Performance Snapshot: High volatility with potential for outsized returns
• Expense Ratio: 0.75%
• Focus Areas: Autonomous transportation, drone tech, defense robotics, energy innovation

First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF (ROBT)

ROBT tracks an index of companies engaged in AI and robotics innovation, with exposure to hardware, software, and services. It includes several large-cap tech firms with strong R&D in automation.

• Key Holdings: NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Microsoft, Salesforce, Splunk
• Performance Snapshot: Broad-based growth, less concentrated than pure-play funds
• Expense Ratio: 0.65%
• Focus Areas: Cognitive computing, AI platforms, industrial automation, enterprise software

Comparative Analysis of Leading Robotics ETFs (US, 2025)

Note: AUM and performance figures are illustrative based on recent market data and subject to change. Investors should consult current fund fact sheets for the most up-to-date information.

Emerging Trends: Humanoid Robotics ETFs and Beyond (2025)

While industrial robots have been in use for decades, 2025 marks a turning point for humanoid robotics. Advances in AI, battery efficiency, and motor control are making human-like robots more viable for real-world tasks. Companies like Boston Dynamics, Agility Robotics, and Tesla are testing prototypes capable of walking, lifting, and interacting in complex environments.

These robots could eventually serve in warehouses, elder care, hazardous material handling, and even customer service roles. While dedicated “humanoid robotics ETFs” don’t yet exist as standalone products, broader funds like ROBO and ARKQ are increasingly allocating to companies at the forefront of this research.

For investors, this sub-sector offers high-risk, high-reward potential. The technology is still in early development, with long timelines and significant capital needs. Regulatory and ethical questions also remain. However, if humanoid robots achieve commercial scalability, the financial upside could be substantial. Watch for new ETFs in 2025 that may begin to carve out specific exposure to this emerging niche.

Risks and Considerations for Investing in Robotics ETFs

Despite strong growth prospects, robotics ETFs come with inherent risks that U.S. investors should understand:

• Market Volatility: As tech-heavy, growth-oriented funds, robotics ETFs can be highly sensitive to interest rate changes, economic downturns, and investor sentiment shifts.
• Technological Disruption: The pace of innovation is rapid. A company leading today could fall behind in a few years if it fails to adapt, potentially dragging down ETF performance.
• Concentration Risk: Some ETFs are heavily weighted toward a few large-cap stocks like NVIDIA. Overreliance on a single holding increases vulnerability to sector-specific setbacks.
• Global Supply Chain Exposure: Many robotics firms depend on international manufacturing and components. Trade tensions, geopolitical instability, or logistics disruptions can impact profitability.
• Higher Expense Ratios: Thematic ETFs typically charge more than broad-market index funds. Over time, these fees can reduce net returns, especially in lower-growth periods.

Investors should view robotics ETFs as long-term, satellite holdings within a diversified portfolio-not as core investments.

How to Choose the Right Robotics ETF for Your US Portfolio

Selecting the best robotics ETF depends on your financial goals, risk appetite, and investment timeline. Consider these key factors:

• Expense Ratio: Lower fees mean more of your returns stay in your pocket. Compare across funds-BOTZ, for example, offers competitive pricing at 0.35%.
• Liquidity and Trading Volume: High daily volume ensures you can enter and exit positions without slippage. BOTZ and ROBO are among the most liquid in the space.
• Holding Composition: Review the full portfolio, not just the top 10 holdings. Some ETFs emphasize hardware, others software or AI. Decide which segment aligns with your outlook.
• Geographic Exposure: ROBO and IRBO include international firms, offering global diversification. BOTZ is more U.S.-centric.
• Management Style: ARKQ is actively managed, meaning holdings shift based on research. Most others are passive, tracking a fixed index.
• Performance History: While past performance doesn’t guarantee future results, it can reveal how a fund behaves in bull and bear markets.

For conservative investors, a low-cost, diversified fund like IRBO may be ideal. Aggressive investors seeking higher growth might consider ARKQ, but should be prepared for volatility.

Where to Buy Robotics ETFs in the United States (2025): Top Brokerage Platforms

Choosing the right brokerage is essential for accessing robotics ETFs efficiently. Look for platforms with low fees, strong research tools, and seamless trading experiences. For investors interested in expanding beyond ETFs into global markets, forex, or CFDs, a versatile broker can add significant value.

Top 3 Brokerage Platforms for US Thematic ETF Investors (2025)

• Moneta Markets: A top choice for U.S. investors seeking a dynamic, multi-asset trading environment. Regulated by the FCA and known for its competitive pricing, Moneta Markets offers access to global markets through the MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 platforms. While best known for forex and CFDs, its robust infrastructure supports ETF trading and portfolio diversification. The platform’s advanced charting, real-time data, and responsive customer support make it ideal for active investors building a globally diversified strategy that includes robotics ETFs.
• IG: A well-established broker with CFTC/NFA regulation in the U.S., IG provides extensive ETF access, advanced trading tools, and in-depth market research. Its user-friendly interface and strong educational resources cater to both beginners and experienced traders.
• OANDA: Trusted for transparency and reliability, OANDA offers a clean trading platform with competitive pricing and commission-free ETF trades on many products. Its strong mobile app and 24/5 customer support make it a solid option for investors focused on ease of use.

Broker Comparison for US ETF & Diversified Investing (2025)

Note: Specific ETF availability and fee structures can vary and are subject to change. Investors should verify current offerings directly with each broker.

Tax Implications for US Investors in Robotics ETFs

Robotics ETFs are treated like other ETFs for tax purposes under IRS rules. Investors should be aware of three key tax considerations:

• Capital Gains Tax: Profits from selling ETF shares are subject to capital gains tax. If held for over a year, gains are taxed at long-term rates (0%, 15%, or 20%, depending on income). Short-term gains (held one year or less) are taxed as ordinary income.
• Dividend Income: Most robotics ETFs pay dividends from underlying holdings. Qualified dividends-those from stocks held by the ETF for more than 60 days-are taxed at lower long-term capital gains rates. Non-qualified dividends are taxed as ordinary income.
• Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Holding robotics ETFs in IRAs, 401(k)s, or other retirement accounts can defer or eliminate taxes on gains and dividends. This is especially beneficial for high-growth thematic funds.

Given the complexity of tax rules, especially around qualified dividends and cost basis reporting, consulting a certified U.S. tax advisor is strongly recommended. For official guidance, refer to the IRS page on capital gains and losses.

Conclusion: The Future is Automated – Are Your Investments Ready for 2025?

The robotics and automation revolution is accelerating, and 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for innovation and adoption. From AI-powered factories to robotic healthcare assistants and autonomous logistics networks, the U.S. is at the center of this transformation. For investors, robotics ETFs offer a practical, diversified way to capture this growth without the risk of betting on individual startups or unproven technologies.

By selecting a fund that aligns with your risk tolerance and investment horizon, you can position your portfolio to benefit from long-term structural trends. Whether you prefer the stability of a low-cost, passively managed ETF like BOTZ or the high-conviction approach of ARKQ, the options are robust and accessible.

Pairing your ETF strategy with a versatile brokerage like Moneta Markets-which offers FCA-regulated services, global market access, and advanced trading tools-can further enhance your ability to build a forward-looking, diversified portfolio. As automation reshapes industries, ensuring your investments evolve with the times isn’t just smart-it’s essential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Robotics ETFs in the US (2025)

What is the best robotics ETF in 2025 for US investors?

There isn’t a single “best” robotics ETF, as the ideal choice depends on your individual investment goals, risk tolerance, and desired exposure. Popular options include the VanEck Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (BOTZ) for focused exposure, the Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF (ROBO) for broader diversification, and the ARK Autonomous Technology & Robotics ETF (ARKQ) for actively managed, high-growth potential. It’s crucial to research each fund’s holdings, expense ratio, and past performance before investing.

Are robotics ETFs a good investment for the long term?

Many financial experts believe robotics and automation represent a significant long-term secular growth trend. The increasing adoption of these technologies across industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics suggests strong growth potential. However, like all thematic investments, they can be volatile. For long-term investors comfortable with technology sector fluctuations, robotics ETFs can be a valuable addition to a diversified portfolio. Bloomberg often covers the long-term outlook for robotics investments, highlighting their growth potential.

How can I find a list of robotics ETFs available in the United States?

You can find lists of robotics and AI-focused ETFs through various financial data providers and brokerage platforms. Websites like ETF.com, Morningstar, and Zacks Investment Research offer comprehensive ETF screeners and detailed information. Your chosen brokerage platform will also list all available ETFs, including those categorized under robotics and automation.

Does Vanguard offer a robotics ETF?

As of early 2025, Vanguard primarily focuses on broad market index funds and does not offer a dedicated, pure-play robotics ETF. While some of their broader technology or growth funds might have exposure to robotics companies, they do not have a specific thematic ETF solely concentrated on robotics and artificial intelligence. Investors looking for such specific exposure would need to consider offerings from other fund providers like VanEck, Global X, or iShares.

What is the difference between AI and robotics ETFs?

While closely related, AI (Artificial Intelligence) ETFs typically focus on companies developing AI software, algorithms, and data processing capabilities, whereas Robotics ETFs concentrate on companies manufacturing or utilizing physical robots and automation hardware. Many ETFs, however, are “Robotics & AI” ETFs, acknowledging the symbiotic relationship where AI powers advanced robotic functions. Therefore, most funds in this space will have exposure to both aspects.

Can I invest in iShares Automation & Robotics UCITS ETF USD (Acc) from the US?

The iShares Automation & Robotics UCITS ETF USD (Acc) is a UCITS fund, which means it is domiciled in Europe and designed for European investors. Due to US regulatory restrictions (specifically, the lack of a Key Information Document, or KID, required by PRIIPs regulations for European funds), US retail investors generally cannot directly invest in UCITS ETFs. US investors should look for US-domiciled equivalents, such as the iShares Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Multisector ETF (IRBO).

What are the typical expense ratios for robotics ETFs?

Robotics ETFs, being thematic and often more specialized than broad market funds, typically have expense ratios ranging from 0.35% to 0.75% annually. Actively managed funds, like ARK Autonomous Technology & Robotics ETF (ARKQ), might be at the higher end of this spectrum or even exceed it. While these are generally higher than passive S&P 500 index funds, they are considered competitive for specialized thematic ETFs. Investors should always compare expense ratios when selecting a fund, as these fees can impact long-term returns.

How can Moneta Markets help US investors with their robotics ETF strategy?

Moneta Markets is an excellent choice for dynamic US investors who want a versatile platform to manage a broad and diversified investment portfolio. While primarily known for its competitive forex and CFD trading, its robust platform and global market access capabilities make it attractive for those looking to integrate thematic ETFs into a wider investment strategy. Moneta Markets provides a reliable and cost-effective environment for trading various asset classes, complementing an investor’s pursuit of growth themes like robotics.

Is Moneta Markets a good option for diversifying my US portfolio with global and thematic investments?

Absolutely. Moneta Markets is designed to provide a comprehensive trading experience with a focus on competitive pricing and a powerful platform. For US investors seeking to diversify their portfolios beyond traditional US-centric investments, Moneta Markets offers the potential for global market access across various asset classes. This versatility makes it a strong contender for those looking to explore thematic investments, including robotics ETFs, as part of a broader, globally-diversified strategy, leveraging its efficient trading environment.