3 ASX thematic ETFs that could boom over the next decade

These funds give investors exposure to future-facing industries.

Two smiling work colleagues discuss an investment at their office.

Image source: Getty Images

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.

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

A father and son look at a field of windmills at sunset as the world heads towards a greener future.
ETFs

Which ethical ASX ETF is on track to deliver the best returns in 2025?

This fund is racing ahead of the ASX 200 this year.

Read more »

A hooded person sits at a computer in front of a large map of the world, implying the person is involved in cyber hacking.
ETFs

Meet the ASX ETF that has returned 17.8% for 9 years

This fund has made its investors very wealthy...

Read more »

Two people work with a digital map of the world, planning their logistics on a global scale.
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs that benefit from unavoidable megatrends

These megatrends are changing the world and these funds give investors exposure to stocks that will benefit.

Read more »

A young man talks tech on his phone while looking at a laptop. A financial graph is superimposed across the image.
ETFs

Would Warren Buffett buy Global X Fang+ ETF (FANG) units?

Would the Oracle of Omaha want to invest in the US tech giants?

Read more »

Two people in first class of an aeroplane share advice over the aisle of the plane.
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs that can generate more cash than your savings account

Have you considered an ASX ETF for passive income?

Read more »

Businessman at the beach building a wall around his sandcastle, signifying protecting his business.
ETFs

Is the VanEck International Wide Moat ETF (GOAT) a buy today?

MOAT has been a winner, but is it the GOAT?

Read more »

an older couple look happy as they sit at a laptop computer in their home.
ETFs

The ASX ETFs to buy in 2026 and then never sell

You might want to hold tightly to these funds for the long term. Let's find out why.

Read more »

Young happy people on a farm raise bottles of orange juice in a big cheers to celebrate a dividends or financial win.
ETFs

These two ASX ETFs soared in the month of November

Do you have these market beating funds in your portfolio?

Read more »