AI-focused exchange-traded funds are delivering sharply divergent returns in 2026, with the Roundhill Generative AI & Technology ETF up 57% year to date while the Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF has gained just 4.4%. The gap reflects differing exposure across the AI value chain, from high-margin generative software to capital-intensive hardware and robotics. Mega-cap hyperscalers Alphabet, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta are on track to spend about $650 billion in combined capital expenditures in 2026, and Goldman Sachs Research projects global AI-related investment will reach $1 trillion by the end of 2026. However, a PwC survey of 4,454 CEOs found only 12% reported AI has delivered both cost and revenue benefits, while 56% saw no significant financial benefit to date. Among five highlighted AI ETFs, the Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF has $10.26 billion in net assets and is up 25.3% year to date, the Roundhill Generative AI & Technology ETF has $1.93 billion in assets and is up 57.2%, the First Trust NASDAQ Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF has $778.7 million in assets and is up 14.7%, the ROBO Global Artificial Intelligence ETF has $449.8 million in assets and is up 46%, and the WisdomTree Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Fund has $704.8 million in assets and is up 46.4%.
