Given all the interest and hype over the SpaceX IPO, many advisors and investors have been increasingly gravitating towards thematic ETFs that focus on the space industry. Given that the SpaceX IPO is the largest IPO in history, this should not come as a surprise to anyone.
Key Takeaways:
- SpaceX’s IPO is dominating much of the public discourse right now, but there are plenty of other thematic approaches that are offering strong results right now.
- For instance, there are ETFs that offer focused exposure towards AI, energy, and infrastructure, which are providing strong progress reports so far this year.
- Taking on thematic approaches can offer plenty of advantages, ranging from long-term growth, diversification, and much more.
That being said, just because SpaceX is dominating public discourse does not mean the space industry is the only thematic play worth considering right now. In fact, many different thematic ETF approaches are currently offering highly compelling track records.
See More: SpaceX: The AI IPO Wearing a Spacesuit
AI Opportunities
For instance, there’s the ROBO Global Artificial Intelligence ETF (THNQ). THNQ provides global exposure to a variety of companies that are in pole position to lead in AI development, infrastructure, and adoption. This includes companies engaged with computing and cloud services, along with those who are adopting it at scale.
AI has been a highly prevalent theme throughout 2026, and THNQ has benefited as such. As of May 31, 2026, the fund’s NAV has risen 41.90% over the last three months.
See More: AI News You Need to Know — June Edition: Capex, Inference, & Beyond
The Energy Factor
THNQ is not the only thematic ETF that has enjoyed a strong track record in recent months. The Amplify Energy & Natural Resources Covered Call ETF (NDIV) may also be worth taking a look at. NDIV is a fund that looks to generate annual income through high-dividend energy and natural resources equities, while pairing this with covered calls.
The energy industry offers a compelling use case right now. Not only does it provide diversification, but energy remains in high demand to capitalize on growing AI adoption. This approach has led to the fund offering a distribution rate of 11.52%, as of May 31, 2026.
See More: Beat the CPI Heat: Natural Resource ETFs as an Inflation Hedge
Infrastructure’s Resilience
Another thematic play that offers a compelling opportunity is the Global X US Infrastructure Development ETF (PAVE). PAVE invests in a variety of companies poised to benefit from increased infrastructure spending, such as those engaged in heavy equipment, engineering, and construction.
Infrastructure exposure could make a great deal of sense going forward, given how the sector tends to perform well against the threat of inflation. This theory is playing out in real time, as the fund’s NAV is up 17.86% year to date, as of May 31, 2026.
These three funds showcase why it’s important not to solely focus on the most popular theme right now. Those who are willing to put the time in and look outside the box can help foster not only a more well-diversified portfolio, but help build stronger returns over the long-term.
Originally published on ETF Trends
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vettafi.com is owned by VettaFi LLC (“VettaFi”). VettaFi is the index provider for THNQ and NDIV, for which it receives an index licensing fee. However, THNQ and NDIV are not issued, sponsored, endorsed, or sold by VettaFi. VettaFi and its affiliates have no obligation or liability in connection with the issuance, administration, marketing, or trading of THNQ and NDIV.
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