Generated September 6, 2026.
Overview
AIQ and BOTZ are both Global X ETFs targeting artificial intelligence exposure, but they differ in scope and composition. AIQ casts a wider net across AI-adjacent technology companies, while BOTZ focuses specifically on robotics and AI adoption.
How they differ
The biggest distinction is thematic focus: AIQ targets general AI and technology, whereas BOTZ narrows to companies benefiting from robotics and AI specifically, tracking the Indxx Global Robotics & Artificial Intelligence Thematic Index. That scope difference likely explains why BOTZ's beta of 1.82 exceeds AIQ's 1.68—narrower themes tend to amplify swings. AIQ is substantially larger, with $10.1B in assets versus $3.38B, suggesting broader institutional adoption. Both charge 0.68%, so cost is a wash. The second key difference is distribution posture: AIQ pays nothing (0.00%), while BOTZ yields 0.10%, a nominal spread that hints at different index methodologies and rebalancing patterns. BOTZ arrived earlier (09/12/2016) than AIQ (05/11/2018), giving it a longer track record but no performance guarantee.
Who each is best for
AIQ: Fits investors seeking broad exposure to artificial intelligence and adjacent tech ecosystems without a specific robotics tilt—those comfortable with a technology-wide bet and no dividend income.
BOTZ: Designed for investors with conviction that robotics and AI adoption will drive returns and who want portfolio income alongside that thematic exposure, even if modest.
Key risks to know
- Thematic concentration: Both funds concentrate on a narrow industry trend. If AI adoption stalls or hype recedes, both may underperform diversified tech indices significantly.
- Higher systematic volatility: BOTZ's 1.82 beta and AIQ's 1.68 beta both exceed the broad market; downturns in growth equities or tech-sector reversals will hit these funds harder than the S&P 500.
- Overlapping holdings: The two funds likely hold many of the same companies (chipmakers, software vendors, robotics firms). Owning both may not provide meaningful diversification benefit.
- No income floor in AIQ: A zero distribution rate means all return depends on price appreciation, leaving AIQ vulnerable if valuations compress while BOTZ's modest yield provides a small cushion.
Bottom line
If you want pure AI-sector breadth with no dividend drag, AIQ's larger size and lower beta fit a tech-forward allocation. If you prefer the robotics-specific angle with some income attached, BOTZ's tighter focus and longer history appeal, though its higher volatility carries the trade-off. Both are volatile holdings and neither should dominate a portfolio built for stability.
AI-generated analysis for educational purposes only. Verify important details independently; past performance does not guarantee future results.