Core Viewpoint - The comparison between the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK) and the Roundhill Generative AI and Technology ETF (CHAT) highlights the importance of understanding the differences in their investment strategies, particularly in the context of fluctuating AI valuations [1][10]. Cost and Size - XLK has a lower expense ratio of 0.08% compared to CHAT's 0.75%, making XLK a more cost-effective option for investors [4][5]. - As of January 27, 2026, XLK has a total return of 30.91% over the past year, while CHAT has significantly outperformed with a return of 63.06% [4]. Performance and Risk Comparison - CHAT has a higher maximum drawdown of -31.35% over two years compared to XLK's -25.65%, indicating greater volatility associated with CHAT [6]. - Despite its recent strong performance, CHAT's elevated beta suggests it carries higher risk, which may be a consideration for investors attracted to its AI focus [6]. Holdings and Strategy - CHAT is actively managed with 52 holdings, focusing heavily on generative AI, with 85% of its portfolio in technology [7]. - XLK offers a broader exposure with 70 holdings, including major U.S. tech companies, and does not apply an ESG screen, reflecting a more traditional investment approach [8]. Investor Implications - Investors seeking steady tech exposure without reliance on a single narrative may prefer XLK, while those intentionally targeting AI growth and willing to accept higher volatility may opt for CHAT [11][12]. - The choice between XLK and CHAT ultimately hinges on whether investors prioritize broad earnings power or a concentrated bet on a specific trend [12].

Investors who didn't own artificial intelligence (AI) stocks last year probably underperformed the broader market because they would have missed out on significant contributions from high-flying stocks like Nvidia, Alphabet, and Palantir Technologies, which soared between 39% and 135%. However, there's a simple way to rectify that in 2026. The Roundhill Generative AI and Technology ETF (NYSEMKT: CHAT) is an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that exclusively invests in AI stocks, so it could be a great addition t ...

Core Insights - The Roundhill Generative AI and Technology ETF offers a straightforward investment opportunity in the AI sector, which is expected to drive stock market returns in 2026 [1][2][12] - The ETF consists of a concentrated portfolio of 50 stocks, with its top five holdings accounting for 25.9% of its total value, indicating a lack of diversification [5][7] - The ETF has significantly outperformed the S&P 500, achieving a 53% return in 2025 compared to the S&P 500's 16% [12] ETF Composition - The top five holdings in the Roundhill ETF include Alphabet, Nvidia, Microsoft, Meta Platforms, and Broadcom, which are key players in the AI boom and have delivered a median return of 37% this year [7][12] - Other notable stocks in the ETF include Advanced Micro Devices, Palantir Technologies, CoreWeave, Micron Technology, and Snowflake, which are also contributing to the AI infrastructure and software development [10] Performance Metrics - The Roundhill ETF was established in 2023 and has shown strong performance, but it lacks a long track record and has not been tested in a prolonged bear market [12] - The ETF has an expense ratio of 0.75%, which is higher than many passive index funds, but the current high returns may justify these costs [13][14] - Future growth in AI infrastructure spending is projected to reach $4 trillion by 2030, suggesting that the AI sector may still be in its early stages [14][15]