Global X CEO on Thematic ETFs: AI, Defense Tech, and Energy Trends

Thematic ETF Landscape

• 💡 Global X, an asset manager with nearly $75 billion in assets, dedicates roughly $20 billion to its thematic ETF lineup.
• 🎯 While artificial intelligence has been a significant driver of flows, the thematic investing space is broadening beyond just AI.

AI and Related Sectors

• ⚡ The AI trade is expanding to include more targeted exposures such as data centers, energy to fuel the boom, and uranium/clean energy.
• 📈 Interest in liquefied natural gas (LNG) is also noted as a component within the broader energy theme.

Defense Technology as a Growth Area

• 🛡️ Defense technology is highlighted as a key area of investor interest, with the SHLD fund seeing over $3 billion in net new assets this year.
• 🌍 The trend is linked to NATO countries increasing their defense spending and arming themselves, a dynamic expected to continue.