BlackRock Launches Robotics ETF as AI Investment Theme Expands Beyond Software

Key Takeaways

• BlackRock has launched the iShares Future Robotics and Related Technologies Active ETF, with ticker RBTX.
• The ETF provides actively managed exposure to companies involved in robotics and related technologies.
• The fund carries an expense ratio of 0.65% and is listed on NYSE Arca.

BlackRock has expanded its artificial-intelligence-linked ETF range with a new fund focused specifically on robotics and intelligent automation.

The iShares Future Robotics and Related Technologies Active ETF, trading under the ticker RBTX, seeks exposure to companies involved in robotics and related technologies.

BlackRock's product information lists the fund launch date as October 20, 2026, while its NYSE Arca listing commenced on October 21. The ETF has an expense ratio of 0.65%.

Unlike an index-tracking ETF, RBTX is actively managed. Its mandate allows the portfolio managers to identify businesses positioned across different areas of the robotics value chain rather than mechanically replicating an index.

The launch reflects an increasingly segmented approach to the broader artificial intelligence investment theme.

AI-related investment products initially tended to concentrate on semiconductors, cloud computing and large technology companies. Robotics introduces another layer, covering businesses that apply intelligent machines to physical processes in areas such as manufacturing, transportation and other forms of automation.

BlackRock described robotics as a potential next stage in AI adoption, as artificial intelligence moves from software and data-centre infrastructure into physical applications.

The ETF is managed by a team that includes Tony Kim, who heads BlackRock's Fundamental Equities Global Technology team, alongside Tomas Hamudis, Peter Jegunma and Gowrishankar Subramanian.

The launch also comes as the market for specialised AI ETFs becomes more crowded. A growing number of funds are focusing on individual segments such as large language models, AI infrastructure, robotics and related technologies rather than treating artificial intelligence as one homogeneous investment category.

RBTX does not yet have a meaningful performance history given its October 2026 launch. Its eventual returns will depend on the portfolio selected by its managers and the performance of the underlying robotics and technology companies.