3 ASX thematic ETFs that could boom over the next decade

These funds give investors exposure to future-facing industries.

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Key points
  • The BetaShares Cloud Computing ETF offers diversified exposure to companies driving the cloud revolution, like Shopify, ServiceNow, and Salesforce, highlighting its potential as a long-term structural investment trend.
  • With increasing cyber threats, the BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF provides access to cybersecurity leaders like CrowdStrike and Palo Alto Networks, positioned at the forefront of a vital and rapidly growing industry.
  • The BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF features innovators like Nvidia and ABB, poised to benefit from the transformational impact of robotics and AI across multiple industries.

Spotting the next major investing wave isn't always easy, but one thing is clear. The world is changing faster than ever.

Our homes, workplaces and even our governments are leaning more heavily into digital systems, smarter automation and cloud-driven technology. And when huge structural shifts like these occur, investors who position themselves early often reap the biggest rewards.

Fortunately, you don't need to be a tech expert or chase risky individual stocks to participate.

Several thematic ETFs provide simple, diversified exposure to the industries shaping the next decade. And if these megatrends continue gathering momentum, the ASX ETFs in this article could be among the strongest performers on the market.

Two smiling work colleagues discuss an investment at their office.

Image source: Getty Images

BetaShares Cloud Computing ETF (ASX: CLDD)

Cloud computing is one of the most powerful long-term structural trends in technology. Every year, more businesses move their operations into the cloud, relying on scalable platforms for data storage, workflow management and AI-driven tools. The BetaShares Cloud Computing ETF gives investors access to the companies building and enabling this infrastructure.

The ASX ETF's portfolio includes global names such as Shopify (NASDAQ: SHOP), which powers cloud-based e-commerce; ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW), a leader in digital workflow automation; and Salesforce (NYSE: CRM), the world's largest cloud CRM provider. These companies don't just benefit from cloud adoption, they help accelerate it, creating sticky recurring revenue and deep customer integration.

BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

As the world becomes more digital, cyber threats are increasing at an alarming pace. Businesses, governments and individuals all require greater protection, and this is driving explosive growth in the cybersecurity sector. The BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF offers exposure to key players in this space.

This fund includes heavyweights such as CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), known for its AI-powered endpoint protection; Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), a leader in enterprise network security; and Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT), which provides integrated cybersecurity solutions. These companies enjoy rising demand regardless of economic cycles because cybersecurity is no longer optional, it is essential.

And with cybercrime expected to cost trillions globally over the next decade, the BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF is positioned at the heart of a growth story that shows no signs of slowing.

BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ)

Finally, robotics and artificial intelligence are transforming industries from manufacturing to healthcare. The BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF provides access to companies leading these innovations.

Its holdings include Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), the chipmaker powering most of the world's AI systems; ABB (SWX: ABBN), a global leader in industrial robotics; and Fanuc (TSE: 6954), which produces factory automation technologies used across automotive, electronics and aerospace manufacturing.

As automation spreads and AI becomes embedded in everyday business operations, companies in this ASX ETF's portfolio could enjoy substantial growth tailwinds.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Abb, BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF, CrowdStrike, Fortinet, Nvidia, Salesforce, ServiceNow, and Shopify. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Palo Alto Networks. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CrowdStrike, Nvidia, Salesforce, ServiceNow, and Shopify. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on ETFs

Family cheering in front of TV.
ETFs

5 ASX ETFs to buy and hold for 10 years

These funds could be worth considering for the next decade.

Read more »

A young woman sits at her desk in deep contemplation with her hand to her chin while seriously considering information she is reading on her laptop.
ETFs

3 of the best ASX ETFs for beginner investors in 2026

If you are new to investing, then it could be worth considering these funds. Let's see why.

Read more »

two colleagues high five each other as they sit side by side at a long desk in front of their laptop computers in an office environment.
ETFs

5 ASX ETFs to buy in April and hold until 2036

Investors might want to check out these funds for easy long-term investing.

Read more »

A businessman lights up the fifth star in a lineup, indicating positive share price for a top performer
ETFs

Bell Potter names 2 of the best ASX ETFs to buy now

These funds offer investors access to some of the best stocks in the world.

Read more »

ETF written in white and in shopping baskets.
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs to buy before the rally really takes off: expert

James Gerrish from Shaw and Partners says the "war fear" in the market is now fading and names 3 ASX…

Read more »

2 smiling women looking at a phone.
ETFs

Why I'd buy these BetaShares ETFs for my portfolio in April

I think these BetaShares ETFs offer a mix of growth, resilience, and long-term potential.

Read more »

Children skipping and jumping up a hill.
ETFs

This monthly income ASX ETF yields 7%, and every ASX investor should take note

The price of this ASX ETF has climbed higher over the past 12 months.

Read more »

Happy man and woman looking at the share price on a tablet.
ETFs

3 cheap ASX ETFs to buy for the tech rebound

The funds have fallen heavily and now could be the time to pounce on them.

Read more »