Investors are leaving thematic ETFs en masse: AI, video games and other topics are losing popularity

There is a change of favorites in the global investment market. Investors are increasingly moving from exchange-traded funds (ETFs) specializing in certain topics to traditional ETFs linked to stock indexes.

Analyst data indicate that the outflow of funds from thematic ETFs has continued for the third year in a row. This year, $5.8 billion has been withdrawn so far, which already exceeds the outflow for the whole of 2023 ($4.8 billion).

The growth of stock indexes, which are near record highs, is one of the reasons for this phenomenon. The five largest ETFs tracking the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 indices have received inflows of $170 billion this year.

Experts believe that investors may prefer the stability and broad diversification offered by index ETFs. They also point out that thematic investing itself involves risks. Choosing the right topic, the stocks that will benefit most from this topic, and accurately determining the time of purchase of the fund — all this requires high qualifications and experience.

This trend may indicate that investors are becoming more conservative in their investments. But it's worth noting that thematic ETFs can return to favor if certain topics, such as AI or the metaverse, show strong growth.