Introduction

Commencing our exploration of diverse robotics and AI ETFs, let's delve into the pioneering entity: the ROBO Global Robotics & Automation Index ETF (ROBO, $43.86), launched back in October 2013.

While ROBO is known for its robotics and automation focus, it's not purely driven by artificial intelligence (AI) - a trait shared by most AI-linked ETFs. This fund zeroes in on "global organizations leading groundbreaking advancements in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence (RAAI)."

In the multifaceted landscape of robotics, AI plays a notable role within ROBO, intertwining with an array of other sectors. Divided into two main segments - Applications (59%) and Technologies (41%) - the portfolio boasts diverse subsets. Only comprising 12% of the fund, the Computing, Processing, & AI branch falls behind other sectors like Healthcare, Logistics Automation, and the leading Manufacturing & Industrial sector at 16%.

The industrial essence of ROBO rings true through its varied groups such as Business Process Automation, Sensing technologies, Integration solutions, and cutting-edge 3D Printing innovations.

ROBO encompasses a robust assortment of nearly 80 stocks, featuring prominent players like robotic surgery firm Intuitive Surgical (ISRG), Swiss automated storage expert Kardex Holding, and Japanese robotics superstar Fanuc (FANUY). With a strong international presence, ROBO champions a majority of non-U.S. assets at 44%, with Japan (21%), Taiwan (8%), Germany (8%), and numerous other countries contributing to its diversified portfolio. However, note that this global emphasis comes at a premium, as ROBO bears the highest expense ratio among the AI ETFs on our radar, standing at 0.95% annually.