Investors Shift to AI, Energy and Infrastructure ETFs

Financial advisers and investors across the United States reported increased demand for thematic exchange-traded funds focused on artificial intelligence, energy and infrastructure following SpaceX’s record IPO. Performance figures through May 31, 2026: ROBO Global Artificial Intelligence ETF (THNQ) rose 41.90% over the prior three months, Amplify Energy & Natural Resources Covered Call ETF (NDIV) reported an 11.52% distribution rate, and Global X US Infrastructure Development ETF (PAVE) posted a 17.86% increase in net asset value year to date.

Advisers said clients are seeking targeted exposure to sectors rather than holding single-company stock positions. Fund flows over the spring showed interest in ETFs tied to AI technology, higher-yield energy equities and companies positioned to benefit from federal and private infrastructure spending.

THNQ tracks companies involved in AI development, computing infrastructure and cloud services, including firms adopting AI at scale. The fund’s NAV rose 41.90% over the three months ending May 31, 2026. Market observers attribute THNQ’s gains to broad demand for AI-related stocks and increased capital expenditure in data centers and semiconductor supply chains.

NDIV combines high-dividend energy and natural resources equities with a covered call strategy to generate income. The fund reported a distribution rate of 11.52% as of May 31, 2026. Analysts noted sustained demand for power and commodities as industries expand capacity to support growing computing needs, a factor that can support dividend yields in energy and resources companies.

PAVE invests in U.S. companies involved in heavy equipment, engineering and construction that may benefit from increased infrastructure spending. PAVE’s NAV rose 17.86% year to date through May 31, 2026. Market participants pointed out that infrastructure contracts and long-term projects can allow pricing adjustments that respond to higher input costs over multi-year timelines.

Advisers highlighted diversification as a reason clients are allocating across these themes and recommended evaluating an ETF’s holdings, fee structure and specific strategies, such as the covered call overlay used by NDIV, before investing.

VettaFi LLC is the index provider for THNQ and NDIV and receives index licensing fees. THNQ and NDIV are not issued, sponsored, endorsed or sold by VettaFi, and VettaFi and its affiliates have no obligation or liability in connection with the issuance, administration, marketing or trading of those funds.

Market participants indicated that future flows into AI, energy and infrastructure ETFs will depend on upcoming corporate earnings reports, policy decisions on infrastructure spending and the pace of AI-related capital investment.