BlackRock (NYSE: BLK) has launched the iShares Future Robotics and Related Technologies Active ETF (RBTX), extending its artificial intelligence investment offerings into robotics and the automation of physical tasks. The fund began trading on NYSE Arca on October 20, with the company announcing the launch the following day.
RBTX seeks to maximize total returns by investing in companies involved in developing, supplying, servicing, supporting or deploying intelligent machines that automate physical tasks. Its investment scope covers the robotics value chain, including technologies used in manufacturing, transportation and logistics.
The actively managed fund has an expense ratio of 0.65% and uses the MSCI ACWI Net Index as a performance benchmark. It does not seek to replicate an index, giving its managers discretion over security selection and portfolio allocations.
Fund Targets Robotics Across Industries
The launch reflects BlackRock’s view that AI adoption is expanding from digital applications into physical systems. Robotics combines software, sensors, computing hardware and mechanical systems to automate tasks that traditionally require human involvement.
Tony Kim and Reid Menge of BlackRock’s Fundamental Equities Technology Team will manage RBTX, according to the company’s announcement. The team oversees more than $50 billion across AI and technology investment strategies.
“Robotics is a significant next phase of AI adoption, with the potential to transform industries and create new investment opportunities,” Kim said.
The fund’s broad mandate allows it to invest across different parts of the robotics ecosystem rather than focusing exclusively on robot manufacturers. Companies supplying components, enabling technologies and automation services may also fall within its investment scope.
However, returns will depend on the performance of the underlying holdings, market conditions and the pace at which robotics technologies are adopted. An actively managed thematic fund can also carry concentration and sector risks.
Expanding BlackRock’s AI Fund Lineup
RBTX joins an existing group of BlackRock funds offering different forms of exposure to artificial intelligence and related technologies.
The lineup includes the iShares A.I. Innovation and Tech Active ETF (BAI), which launched in October 2024 and has accumulated more than $14 billion in assets, according to BlackRock. Other offerings include the iShares Future AI & Tech ETF (ARTY), the iShares Future AI Beneficiaries ETF (AIBF) and the iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX).
These funds address different parts of the AI investment landscape, from semiconductor companies and technology developers to businesses that could benefit from wider AI adoption. RBTX adds a more targeted strategy focused on robotics and physical automation.
Jay Jacobs, BlackRock’s U.S. head of equity ETFs, said investors increasingly want greater choice in how they access AI-related opportunities. He described RBTX as a research-driven approach to identifying companies involved in robotics adoption.
Active ETFs Gain Ground
The launch also comes as asset managers expand actively managed exchange-traded funds. BlackRock said its iShares business had approximately $200 billion in active ETF assets, nearly double the level of a year earlier. The company projects global active ETF assets under management will rise from $1.4 trillion to $4.2 trillion by 2030.
