What Investors Should Know Before Choosing an AI ETF for 2026

Group 1 - The outlook for artificial intelligence (AI) stocks in 2026 is optimistic, with 90% of investors planning to maintain or increase their exposure to AI-related equities this year [1] - The top 10 stocks in Motley Fool's Moneyball database have generated an average return over the past five years that is more than double that of the S&P 500, contributing to bullish sentiment in the market [2] - AI exchange-traded funds (ETFs) offer investors easy access to a diversified basket of stocks, reducing the need to predict specific company winners [3] Group 2 - Investors should differentiate between AI adjacency and purity when evaluating AI ETFs, as some ETFs are broader technology plays while others focus specifically on AI [4] - The Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF mandates that its components must benefit from AI development, ensuring a degree of purity in its holdings [5] - The First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF categorizes companies into enablers, engagers, and enhancers, focusing on those that provide foundational components, create end-use products, or offer value-added services in AI and robotics [6][7]