We’re living in a world where machines think, move, and work for us.
From logistics and healthcare to agriculture and manufacturing, robotics and automation technologies are transforming industries. One ETF that lets you invest directly in this transformation is the ROBO ETF (ROBO Global Robotics and Automation Index ETF).
In this guide, we’ll break down what ROBO is, what companies it holds, its advantages, risks, and how it compares to similar robotics-themed ETFs.
🧾 What is ROBO ETF?
ROBO (ROBO Global Robotics and Automation Index ETF) is a thematic ETF that invests in global companies focused on robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence.
Unlike ETFs like BOTZ, ROBO emphasizes small- and mid-cap innovators rather than large tech giants, offering unique access to early-stage disruptors.
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Issuer: ROBO Global / Exchange Traded Concepts
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Launch Year: 2013
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Expense Ratio: 0.95%
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Benchmark Index: ROBO Global Robotics & Automation Index
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Dividend Yield: ~0.5%
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Dividend Frequency: Quarterly
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Number of Holdings: ~80+
🤖 Top 10 Holdings (2025)
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Symbotic (USA) – AI-powered warehouse automation
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Hollysys Automation (China) – Industrial control systems
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iRobot (USA) – Consumer robotics (e.g., Roomba)
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Teradyne (USA) – Semiconductor testing & automation
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Omron (Japan) – Sensors and control technologies
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Aehr Test Systems (USA) – Semiconductor test equipment
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KION Group (Germany) – Warehouse automation
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Accuray (USA) – Robotic radiation therapy systems
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Brooks Automation (USA) – Semiconductor and life science automation
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Cognex Corp (USA) – Machine vision systems
→ ROBO emphasizes growth-stage companies driving real innovation in robotics.
🌍 Geographic Allocation
| Region | Approx. Weight |
|---|---|
| USA | ~45% |
| Japan | ~20% |
| Europe | ~20% |
| Others (China, Korea, etc.) | ~15% |
→ ROBO provides broad global exposure to leading-edge robotics developers.
✅ Advantages of ROBO ETF
1. Focus on High-Growth Innovators
ROBO gives investors exposure to early-stage robotics companies, which may not be accessible through traditional tech ETFs.
2. Diverse Industry Coverage
From medical robotics to warehouse automation and agriculture, ROBO spans a wide range of sectors using robotic solutions.
3. Global Diversification
ROBO includes companies from Japan, Germany, China, and beyond, reducing single-country exposure.
❌ Risks and Disadvantages
1. High Expense Ratio
At 0.95%, ROBO is one of the most expensive thematic ETFs, which may impact long-term returns.
2. Higher Volatility
Because of its focus on small and mid-cap stocks, ROBO is more vulnerable during rate hikes or market downturns.
3. Lower Liquidity & Recognition
Compared to BOTZ or IRBO, ROBO may have lower trading volume and is less recognized by retail investors.
💡 Who Should Consider ROBO?
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📌 Investors seeking early access to robotics innovation
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📌 Long-term holders looking for thematic tech exposure
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📌 Portfolio builders wanting diversification within robotics and automation
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📌 Risk-tolerant investors pursuing potential high-growth tech
🔍 ROBO vs BOTZ vs IRBO Comparison
| Feature | ROBO | BOTZ | IRBO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Issuer | ROBO Global | Global X | iShares |
| Focus | Robotics Innovators | Large-Cap Robotics + AI | AI & Digital Platforms |
| Holdings | ~80 | ~40 | ~100+ |
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.69% | 0.47% |
| Strategy | Small/Mid-Cap Growth | Concentrated Large-Cap | Broader AI Exposure |
→ ROBO = Innovation-focused, diversified exposure to emerging robotics players
→ BOTZ = More stable, large-cap robotics & AI firms
→ IRBO = Broader tech and digital themes including AI, gaming, and data
📌 Final Thoughts
ROBO ETF is a high-conviction thematic ETF for investors looking to capitalize on the robotics and automation revolution.
If you're willing to accept more volatility in exchange for access to future-forward companies, ROBO could be a powerful tool in your portfolio.
This post is not a buy or sell recommendation, but an introduction to the ETF.
📎 Hashtags
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