Thematic ETFs Poised for Growth in 2026: AI, Infrastructure, and Defense

Thematic ETFs are gaining traction in 2026 as investors seek targeted exposure to high-conviction secular trends amid a backdrop of technological acceleration, massive infrastructure needs, and elevated geopolitical risks. While broad market indices like the S&P 500 continue to deliver solid returns, thematic funds allow portfolios to capture outsized growth from transformative forces: the ongoing AI boom (now shifting from hype to infrastructure buildout), trillions in global infrastructure spending (fueled by energy transition, data centers, and policy initiatives), and rising defense budgets driven by persistent conflicts and national security priorities.

BlackRock's 2026 thematic outlook highlights AI, infrastructure, defense, and even tokenization as key shaping forces. Global X and others note disruptive trends in data centers, defense tech, and AI semiconductors. With thematic inflows rebounding strongly after prior years, 2026 could mark a maturation phase where these themes deliver more consistent alpha rather than boom-bust cycles.

Here are some of the best thematic ETFs poised for growth in 2026, focusing on AI, infrastructure, and defense. These selections draw from popular, liquid options with strong analyst backing and alignment to current macro drivers.

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

This ETF tracks companies developing or benefiting from AI technologies, including hardware, software, semiconductors, cloud computing, and big data. Holdings span leaders in AI infrastructure (e.g., chipmakers, data center enablers) and application layers.

Why poised for 2026: AI is transitioning into a long-term growth phase with hundreds of billions in projected capex for data centers and computing power. Analysts see broadening adoption driving sustained performance beyond early hype—making AIQ a core thematic play for capturing the full ecosystem.

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

BOTZ focuses on robotics, automation, and AI-driven companies across industrial, healthcare, and consumer applications. It complements broader AI exposure by emphasizing physical-world implementations.

Why relevant: As generative AI matures, robotics and autonomous systems are expected to see accelerated deployment in manufacturing, logistics, and services—positioning BOTZ for multi-year tailwinds.

3. Global X U.S. Infrastructure Development ETF (PAVE)

PAVE targets U.S. companies involved in infrastructure construction, engineering, materials, machinery, and related services—benefiting from domestic spending on roads, bridges, energy grids, and data center buildouts.

Why for 2026: Massive U.S. infrastructure needs (including AI-driven power and connectivity demands) plus ongoing policy support create a strong setup. PAVE offers focused exposure to the "build America" theme with relatively lower volatility than pure tech plays.

4. iShares U.S. Infrastructure ETF (IFRA) or similar broad infrastructure options

IFRA provides diversified exposure to U.S. infrastructure sectors, including utilities, transportation, and energy—often with a tilt toward essential services and renewable integration.

Why consider: Infrastructure remains a defensive growth theme, benefiting from both public spending and private investment in electrification and digital backbone. It's a solid complement to AI-themed funds, as data center expansion drives energy and grid upgrades.

5. iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF (ITA)

ITA is the largest and most established defense ETF, tracking U.S. companies in aerospace and defense, including major contractors in aircraft, missiles, satellites, and related technologies.

Why strong in 2026: Geopolitical tensions, potential increases in U.S. defense spending (with tailwinds from policy shifts), and global rearmament cycles support robust order backlogs and earnings growth. Analysts highlight defense as a resilient performer amid uncertainty.

6. VanEck Defense ETF (or similar emerging defense-focused funds)

Newer or specialized defense ETFs target modern defense tech, including cybersecurity, space systems, drones, and intelligence—beyond traditional contractors.

Why noteworthy: Defense is evolving rapidly with tech integration (e.g., AI in warfare, space capabilities). These funds capture the "defense tech" sub-theme gaining traction in 2026 outlooks.

Other Noteworthy Thematic Mentions

• AI infrastructure plays (e.g., funds targeting data centers, power, or semiconductors): These could shine as AI capex surges.
• Global or international infrastructure ETFs (e.g., IGF or similar): For broader exposure beyond the U.S.
• Cybersecurity or clean energy overlaps: Themes like BUG (cyber) or COPX (power infrastructure) tie directly into AI and defense needs.

Thematic ETFs carry higher risk than broad-market funds—volatility from concentration, sector rotation, and policy/geopolitical shifts can be significant. However, in a year where secular trends like AI adoption, infrastructure renewal, and security spending dominate headlines, these vehicles offer compelling ways to overweight high-growth areas.

2026 may not see every theme "explode," but the combination of technological momentum, fiscal priorities, and global realities positions AI, infrastructure, and defense as standout opportunities for diversified growth-oriented portfolios.

Before investing, evaluate your risk tolerance, diversification needs, and time horizon. Thematic investing works best as a satellite allocation (10-20% of portfolio) rather than core. Always check current holdings, expense ratios, liquidity, and performance—markets evolve quickly.

This article is for informational purposes only and not investment advice. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Investments involve risk, including loss of principal.