Beyond the AI Hype: Two ASX ETFs Riding the Next Technology Wave

6 min read | June 06, 2026 09:20 AM AEST | By Sam

Highlights

  • Artificial intelligence continues expanding beyond software into automation, robotics and digital infrastructure.
  • Exchange-traded funds offer diversified exposure to multiple areas of the evolving AI ecosystem.
  • Robotics, automation, data analytics and digital infrastructure remain among the most closely watched long-term technology themes.

Artificial intelligence continues reshaping industries worldwide, with RBTZ and GXAI offering diversified exposure across robotics, automation, digital infrastructure and broader AI-related growth opportunities.

Artificial intelligence has become one of the most discussed themes across global financial markets. While much of the attention focuses on major technology companies and advanced software platforms, the broader AI ecosystem extends far beyond a handful of well-known names. Automation, robotics, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity and data analytics are all playing increasingly important roles in shaping the next phase of technological development. For investors seeking exposure to this transformation, exchange-traded funds have emerged as one way to participate in the trend while maintaining diversification across multiple industries. Two funds attracting attention within this space are BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX:RBTZ) and Global X Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX:GXAI).

Why Artificial Intelligence Remains a Defining Theme

Artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing how businesses operate, how consumers interact with technology and how industries improve efficiency.

Beyond Software Applications

Many discussions around AI focus on digital assistants, content generation and software solutions.

However, artificial intelligence is also being integrated into manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, transportation and industrial operations.

This broader adoption is creating opportunities across multiple sectors rather than within a single industry.

A Multi-Layer Opportunity

The AI ecosystem includes hardware manufacturers, software developers, cloud infrastructure providers, cybersecurity specialists and automation businesses.

As a result, identifying long-term beneficiaries can be challenging.

This complexity is one reason diversified investment vehicles continue attracting attention.

The Growing Role of Robotics and Automation

One of the most significant long-term trends linked to artificial intelligence is automation.

Technology Moving Into the Physical World

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to improve operational efficiency beyond traditional computing environments.

Factories, warehouses, healthcare facilities and logistics networks are adopting technologies designed to automate processes and enhance productivity.

Why Automation Matters

Labour shortages, rising operating costs and supply chain efficiency remain important considerations for businesses globally.

Automation solutions offer potential ways to improve productivity while supporting operational consistency.

These developments continue supporting broader interest in ASX Technology Stocks.

BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF

The BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF provides exposure to businesses involved in robotics, automation and artificial intelligence technologies.

A Focus on Physical Innovation

The fund offers access to companies operating across industrial automation, robotics systems, medical technology, sensors and logistics infrastructure.

These businesses are helping bring artificial intelligence into real-world operational environments.

Long-Term Demand Drivers

Automation continues gaining traction as organisations seek greater efficiency, productivity and resilience.

This demand is being supported by trends such as reshoring, labour constraints and increasing digital integration.

Broad Industry Exposure

Rather than concentrating on a single technology company, the ETF provides exposure across multiple businesses participating in the robotics and automation ecosystem.

This diversification helps capture a wider range of opportunities within the sector.

Artificial Intelligence Requires Infrastructure

The AI revolution is not solely about applications and user interfaces.

Behind every AI system sits a network of technologies supporting data processing, storage and computation.

The Foundation of AI Growth

Semiconductors, cloud computing platforms, cybersecurity systems and data management tools all play important roles within the broader ecosystem.

As AI adoption expands, these supporting technologies become increasingly relevant.

A Global Opportunity

Many of the companies driving innovation within these areas operate across international markets.

This creates opportunities that extend well beyond Australia's domestic technology sector.

Global X Artificial Intelligence ETF

The Global X Artificial Intelligence ETF provides exposure to companies involved in artificial intelligence and big data technologies.

Exposure Across Multiple Segments

The fund includes businesses connected to software development, digital infrastructure, cloud services, analytics and advanced computing technologies.

This approach reflects the broad nature of artificial intelligence adoption.

Why Diversification Matters

Predicting which companies will emerge as long-term leaders within the AI sector can be difficult.

Technology evolves rapidly, and competitive advantages can shift over time.

Diversified exposure can help reduce reliance on any single company or technology trend.

Capturing Global Innovation

Artificial intelligence development is occurring across multiple regions and industries.

The ETF provides access to companies participating in these developments, regardless of where they are listed.

The Importance of Diversified Exposure

Major technology shifts rarely benefit a single group of companies.

Multiple Winners Can Emerge

Historically, technological transformations have created opportunities across hardware, software, infrastructure and service providers.

Artificial intelligence appears likely to follow a similar pattern.

Reducing Company-Specific Risk

Diversification allows exposure to broader themes without relying entirely on the performance of individual companies.

This can be particularly valuable within rapidly evolving sectors.

Risks Remain Part of the Story

Although AI continues attracting significant interest, risks remain.

Expectations Can Change

Technology-related investments can experience periods of heightened volatility as market expectations evolve.

Competitive Landscapes Shift

New innovations, changing consumer behaviour and evolving industry dynamics can alter competitive positioning over time.

Long-Term Perspective Matters

Many technology trends develop over extended periods rather than following a straight-line path.

Periods of optimism are often accompanied by phases of reassessment and consolidation.

Why the AI Ecosystem Is Expanding

Artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing industries beyond traditional technology.

Healthcare Applications

AI is being integrated into diagnostics, medical imaging and healthcare workflows.

Industrial Operations

Manufacturing and logistics businesses continue exploring automation opportunities designed to improve efficiency and productivity.

Data and Security

As data volumes increase, organisations require advanced tools for analysis, storage and protection.

This trend supports businesses operating across the digital infrastructure landscape.

Looking Beyond Today's Headlines

The future of artificial intelligence may not be determined solely by the most visible technology companies.

Many beneficiaries are likely to emerge from supporting industries that provide the infrastructure, automation and specialised technologies enabling broader adoption.

Robotics, automation, data analytics and digital infrastructure all remain closely linked to this evolving landscape.

Why These Themes Continue Attracting Attention

Artificial intelligence remains one of the most influential technology themes shaping global markets.

Funds such as BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF and Global X Artificial Intelligence ETF provide diversified exposure to different parts of this ecosystem.

While one focuses more heavily on robotics and automation, the other offers broader access to AI-related technologies and digital infrastructure.

Together, they highlight how the AI opportunity extends far beyond software applications and continues influencing industries across the global economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What sectors benefit from artificial intelligence beyond software?
    Robotics, automation, healthcare, logistics, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure are among the sectors benefiting from AI adoption.
  • Why do investors use AI-focused ETFs?
    ETFs provide diversified exposure across multiple companies and industries linked to artificial intelligence.
  • What is the difference between RBTZ and GXAI?
    RBTZ focuses on robotics and automation technologies, while GXAI provides broader exposure to artificial intelligence and data-related businesses.

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