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

woman looking at iPhone whilst working on a laptop
ETFs

Why I'm seriously thinking about buying these ASX ETFs in April

As April approaches, these are two ASX ETFs I’m watching closely for long-term investing.

Read more »

A couple sit in front of a laptop reading ASX shares news articles and learning about ASX 200 bargain buys
ETFs

Which ASX ETFs have Aussies traded most since the Iran war began?

Aussies have $333 billion invested in ASX ETFs. Here's how their trading patterns have changed this month.

Read more »

a smiling woman sits at her computer at home with a coffee alongside her, as if pleased with her investments.
ETFs

Where I'd invest $50,000 into ASX ETFs today

A $50,000 investment doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s how I’d use ASX ETFs to build a balanced portfolio.

Read more »

ETF in gold hovering on a laptop.
ETFs

5 ASX ETFs to navigate rising interest rates

These funds could be worth considering if rates stay high.

Read more »

Latin American woman at home checking her budget after grocery shopping.
ETFs

Where to invest if inflation keeps rising – Expert

These funds could outperform if inflation stays high.

Read more »

A panel of four judges hold up cards all showing the perfect score of ten out of ten
ETFs

3 top Vanguard ETFs I would buy in April

Markets have been volatile, but that could create opportunities. Here are three Vanguard ETFs I’d consider as we head into…

Read more »

A woman scratches her head in dismay as she looks at a chaotic scene at a data centre.
ETFs

As AI spending accelerates these ASX ETFs could help you tap into the boom

AI and chips are reshaping industries.

Read more »

A little boy holds his fingers to his head posing as a bull.
ETFs

5 ASX ETFs to buy before the next bull market

These funds could be worth considering when sentiment shifts.

Read more »