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Target or Avoid Big Tech? Discover the Best ETFs for AI Investment Strategies

Hannah Perry | October 25, 2024

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Ways to Target – or Avoid – Big Tech and Megacap Stocks via ETFs Amid AI Frenzy

As the fervor around artificial intelligence (AI) continues to drive major market dynamics, the once unstoppable rise of Big Tech stocks appears to be losing momentum. Both investors and market analysts are now contemplating ways to manage their exposure to these colossal players, particularly through a new wave of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) launched by firms like BlackRock and Defiance.

Current Landscape for Big Tech Stocks

Notably, October has seen some of the most significant Big Tech stocks turning negative, creating an interesting scenario for active investors. AI remains a pivotal theme influencing market movements, as illustrated by the extraordinary performance of Nvidia Corp., which has surged by 183.5% this year alone. Such remarkable growth contributes to the substantial weight these Big Tech stocks carry in the S&P 500 index.

According to Rachel Aguirre, U.S. head of iShares products at BlackRock, the landscape of the U.S. equity market has transformed dramatically. “We have the rise of Big Tech,” she noted, referring to the increasing influence of large-cap stocks that dominate the market. To address varying investor strategies, BlackRock has introduced three new ETFs aimed at helping investors fine-tune their megacap exposure.

New ETF Offerings from BlackRock

The new BlackRock funds include:

  • iShares Top 20 U.S. Stocks ETF (TOPT) – This fund tracks the 20 largest companies in the S&P 500.
  • iShares Nasdaq Top 30 Stocks ETF (QTOP) – Similar in scope, this fund provides exposure to the 30 largest stocks within the Nasdaq-100 index.
  • iShares Nasdaq-100 ex Top 30 ETF (QNXT) – This ETF deliberately excludes the most heavily-weighted companies in the Nasdaq-100.

For investors bullish on the prospects of large-cap stocks, the TOPT and QTOP funds serve as a targeted way to capitalize on potential outsized returns. Conversely, the QNXT offers a strategic option for those preferring to reduce their exposure to high-weighted companies, thereby allowing for a more balanced portfolio portfolio.

Investor Preferences Shifting

One ETF that has gained traction in targeting Big Tech is the Roundhill Magnificent Seven ETF (MAGS). This fund includes major players such as Apple Inc., Nvidia, and Microsoft, among others, and has enjoyed a year-to-date increase of 44.5%. However, it has seen mixed results lately, underperforming other sectors like financial stocks in the last month.

For those averse to Big Tech exposure, Defiance has launched the Defiance Large Cap Ex-Magnificent Seven ETF (XMAG), which offers exposure to the S&P 500 while excluding top players such as Apple, Microsoft, and Tesla. This provides investors an opportunity to diversify away from the overwhelming influence of megacap stocks.

AI-Themed ETFs: Opportunities and Trends

In addition to managing traditional Big Tech exposure, investors are also exploring specialized ETFs focused on AI. One noteworthy entry here is the iShares AI Innovation and Tech Active ETF (BAI), which was launched recently and aims to capitalize on AI investment themes. According to Aniket Ullal, the head of ETF research at CFRA Research, while the AI-based ETFs initially experienced considerable inflows in the first half of 2024, they have witnessed outflows over the last three months, reflecting a shift in investor sentiment.

The most popular ETFs in the AI category now include:

  • Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF (BOTZ) – Holding over $2.5 billion in assets.
  • Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF (AIQ) – With assets nearing $2 billion.
  • SPDR S&P Kensho New Economies Composite ETF (KOMP) – Also with a strong asset base around $2 billion.

The Roundhill Generative AI & Technology ETF (CHAT) and the Franklin Intelligent Machines ETF (IQM) have emerged as top performers, with both funds notably including prevailing Big Tech stocks in their holdings.

Conclusion

In a marketplace forever altered by the emergence of AI and Big Tech, investors have a plethora of strategies to navigate their portfolios. Whether choosing to double down on megacap stocks or exploring innovative ETFs specifically designed to target or exclude these major companies, the evolving financial landscape promises dynamic opportunities for both growth and diversification.

As the October market develops, it will be essential for investors to remain agile, assessing their positions in relation to a transformative AI-driven economy. The options provided by firms like BlackRock and Defiance highlight a commitment to addressing the needs of diverse investors in a rapidly changing market.