AI Infrastructure ETF Shows Balance Sheet Strength

Core Insights - Major investments in AI infrastructure are not leading to the same balance sheet concerns seen during the late 1990s telecom boom, as companies today have stronger earnings relative to their interest obligations [1] - The Alger AI Enablers & Adopters ETF (ALAI) is focused on companies that fund expansion primarily through free cash flow rather than excessive debt, reflecting a more sustainable financial approach [1] Group 1: Financial Health of Companies - Current corporate fundamentals are in better shape compared to the internet buildout period, with the S&P 500's interest coverage ratio at 8.4x as of November 30, 2025, nearly double the 4.7x recorded in December 1999 [1] - U.S. investment-grade corporate bond issuance exceeded $1.5 trillion in 2025, indicating robust corporate financial health [1] Group 2: AI Infrastructure Funding - Companies deploying AI infrastructure today maintain strong cash flow and healthy balance sheets, allowing them to fund capital expenditures from operating cash flow [1] - The ALAI ETF attracted over $245 million in net inflows in 2025, with $54.5 million in Q4 alone, demonstrating investor confidence in this quality-focused approach [1] Group 3: ETF Performance - The ALAI ETF returned 40.3% in 2025 and has a net expense ratio of 0.55%, with assets under management totaling $298.2 million [1] - As of January 16, 2026, NVIDIA Corp. is the largest holding in ALAI at 12.3%, followed by Microsoft Corp. at 8.7%, Amazon.com, Inc. at 8.2%, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd. at 6.0% [1]