Thematic ETFs are making a comeback, and one theme in particular dominates conversation. Artificial Intelligence remains top of mind for investors. TMX VettaFi’s Zeno Mercer and Todd Rosenbluth discussed the disruptive technology.
Mercer kicked things off by taking issue with the term “artificial intelligence,” noting, “Its not artificial anymore, it’s real.” He shared his preference for the term “digital intelligence.”
Asked about the recent 2025 advancements in the AI field, Mercer said open source intelligence has been accelerating. “If you look forward on a five year horizon,” Mercer said, “individuals and institutions will have more options.”
Artificial Intelligence Continues to Generate Interest
In a poll of attendees, two thirds saw artificial intelligence as a topic “worth learning more about” while 11% said it was overhyped. “I’ve been using AI for over a decade now, it was a very slow ramp up to get to where we are today,” Mercer shared. “Now, I do feel like it’s underappreciated.” As such, Mercer sees AI as becoming more nuanced and personalized instead of relying on broader categorizations.
Mercer envisions artificial intelligence as becoming better with data and increasingly personalized to the user experience. Right now, artificial intelligence leverages broad demographic decisions. Basically, a man in his thirties might get fed information or opportunities based on things other men in their thirties enjoy. But soon AI will more accurately see who an individual is. Consequently, it will better be able to comport to their needs.
I THNQ, Therefore I Am
The ROBO Global Artificial Intelligence ETF (THNQ) has two thirds of its exposure to AI infrastructure. “AI is increasingly going to be tethered to interacting in the real world,” Mercer said. He noted robots and autonomous vehicles require strong connectivity because they act independently but are tethered to the infrastructure.
Asked if there was an interesting recent company that has been added to the roster, Mercer pointed to Tempus AI. That company aims to create an “AI healthcare quarterback.” Accordingly, Mercer sees it as an exciting example of how AI can be used to improve both clinical care as well as research.
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