ZACKS·2026-02-25 14:20Core Insights - The American robotics industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by commercial breakthroughs, venture capital investments, and regulatory advancements, positioning the U.S. as a leader in global automation [2][4]. Industry Overview - Global industrial robot installations reached a record market value of $16.7 billion, indicating robust demand and adoption across various sectors [3]. - The global robotics funding exceeded $10.3 billion in 2025, marking the highest level since 2021, with significant investments in medical and humanoid robotics [4]. - The global medical robots market is projected to grow from $18.32 billion in 2026 to $72.54 billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.62% [4]. - The humanoid robotics market is expected to grow at a remarkable CAGR of 39.2%, highlighting the rapid evolution and potential of this segment [4]. Company Highlights - Intuitive Surgical's da Vinci 5 robot received FDA clearance for nine cardiac procedures, expanding its surgical capabilities and driving an 18% increase in da Vinci procedures in 2025 [12]. - Teradyne's robotics division is experiencing growth, with its Universal Robots showcasing a new palletizing solution at CES 2026 and launching ElevateX 2026 in Bengaluru to enhance its presence in Asian markets [13]. - Nvidia is establishing itself as a foundational platform for physical AI and robotics, unveiling a comprehensive robotics stack at CES 2026 and partnering with major manufacturers to drive reindustrialization [14]. - Trimble is enhancing its robotics franchise with precision positioning technologies, integrating its systems into autonomous robotics platforms and expanding its distribution for automated construction robotics [15]. Market Dynamics - The surgical robotics sector is becoming increasingly competitive, with Medtronic's Hugo system receiving FDA clearance and Johnson & Johnson submitting a request for its Ottava system [5]. - The elder care assistive robotics market is projected to grow from $3.38 billion in 2025 to $9.85 billion by 2034, driven by aging demographics and increasing demand for assistive technologies [6]. - Collaborative robotics are gaining traction, with nearly half of U.S. small and medium manufacturers now integrating collaborative robots (cobots), up from 27% two years ago [7]. - The U.S. Army's launch of an AI and machine learning officer specialty and the Pentagon's $13.4 billion budget for autonomous systems underscore the growth potential in defense and space robotics [8]. Investment Outlook - Despite trade tensions, there is a push for domestic manufacturing investments, and the convergence of private capital and policymakers is creating a favorable environment for robotics investments [9]. - The current landscape presents a timely entry point for investors, with physical AI becoming essential and humanoid robots being deployed in various environments [9].