Top 10 ETFs for AI and Tech Growth in September 2025: Best Picks for Diversification (Ranked)

As of late August 2025, the AI and tech growth sector remains robust, fueled by ongoing innovations in generative AI, semiconductors, automation, and quantum computing. Drawing from recent financial analyses, here are the top 10 ETFs recommended for exposure to AI and tech growth, with an emphasis on diversification across subsectors like software, hardware, robotics, and emerging tech. These selections are based on expert recommendations, performance momentum (using 1-year returns where available), expense ratios, and AUM. Remember, market performance fluctuates, and diversification doesn't ensure gains—assess your risk profile and consult a professional advisor.

As of August 31, 2025, we've re-ranked the ETFs for AI and tech growth based on their 1-year trailing returns and AUM, in descending order. 

1. ARK Autonomous Technology & Robotics ETF (ARKQ)

• Expense Ratio: 0.75%,
• AUM: $1.3 billion,
• 1-Year Return: 87.9%.

Actively managed fund targeting autonomous vehicles, robotics, and AI innovations, with holdings like Tesla and UiPath for high-growth, forward-looking tech diversification.

2. Defiance Quantum ETF (QTUM)

• Expense Ratio: 0.4%,
• AUM: $1.9 billion,
• 1-Year Return: 63.8%.

Invests in quantum computing and AI-related tech, blending machine learning with advanced computing for unique long-term tech growth diversification.

3. Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF (AIQ)

• Expense Ratio: 0.68%,
• AUM: $4.5 billion,
• 1-Year Return: 29.8%.

Focuses on companies developing or utilizing AI for big data analysis, with global holdings including Nvidia, Microsoft, and Broadcom for broad AI exposure across sectors.

4. iShares Future AI & Tech ETF (ARTY)

• Expense Ratio: 0.47%,
• AUM: $1.3 billion,
• 1-Year Return: 28.5%.

Tracks companies in developed and emerging markets poised to benefit from AI and robotics growth, including Nvidia, AMD, and Super Micro Computer, offering balanced long-term AI opportunities.

5. VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH)

• Expense Ratio: 0.35%,
• AUM: $26.8 billion,
• 1-Year Return: 33.4%.

Concentrates on semiconductor firms crucial for AI chips, such as Nvidia and TSMC, key for diversifying into AI hardware infrastructure.

6. WisdomTree Artificial Intelligence and Innovation ETF (WTAI):

• Expense Ratio: 0.45%,
• AUM: $263 million,
• 1-Year Return: 32.2%.

Invests in AI innovation across software, semiconductors, and services with a global index of about 70 companies, providing access to emerging AI trends beyond major tech players.

7. First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF (ROBT)

• Expense Ratio: 0.65%,
• AUM: $496 million,
• 1-Year Return: 18.25%

Tracks AI and robotics companies across tech and industrial sectors, with holdings like Symbotic and AeroVironment for broad application diversification.

8. ROBO Global Robotics and Automation Index ETF (ROBO)

• Expense Ratio: 0.95%,
• AUM: $1.05 billion,
• 1-Year Return: 21.7%.

Covers robotics, automation, and AI with equal-weighted holdings to reduce concentration risk, including companies like Fanuc and Teradyne, enhancing industrial AI diversification.

9. Invesco AI and Next Gen Software ETF (IGPT)

• Expense Ratio: 0.58%,
• AUM: $523 million,
• 1-Year Return: 15.3%.

Focuses on next-generation software enabled by AI, including cloud computing and data analytics firms, for diversification into the software side of AI growth.

10. Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF (BOTZ)

• Expense Ratio: 0.68%, 
• AUM: $2.9 billion, 
• 1-Year Return: 12.8%. 

Targets robotics, automation, and AI in industrial and non-industrial applications, with key holdings like ABB, Intuitive Surgical, and Nvidia for diversification into practical AI implementations.

This performance-based ranking highlights top performers like ARKQ and QTUM for aggressive growth potential, while funds like AIQ and ARTY offer more balanced exposure. For diversification, consider allocating across high-return and lower-volatility options to mitigate sector risks as we head into September 2025.

Disclaimer

The information presented in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional financial or investment advice. The revenue figures, company rankings, and projections are based on publicly available data, company reports, and industry estimates as of 2025. All currency conversions, where applicable, are based on annual average exchange rates.

While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information, One Day Advisor and the article’s authors do not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the content for any particular purpose. Readers are encouraged to verify details independently and consult qualified professionals before making any business, investment, or healthcare decisions based on the information provided.

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