Launched in October 2024 by BlackRock, BAI is an actively managed ETF designed to capture opportunities across the artificial intelligence ecosystem. Unlike passive AI ETFs that track predefined indexes, BAI uses bottom-up fundamental research to select companies globally, across market caps and sectors.
The fund’s objective is straightforward: maximize total return by investing in companies positioned to benefit from AI innovation, including semiconductors, cloud infrastructure, and software platforms.
This flexibility allows portfolio managers to adapt quickly to evolving trends—an important advantage in a rapidly changing space like AI.
BAI typically holds a relatively concentrated portfolio (roughly 40–60 stocks), reflecting its active strategy.
The fund is heavily tilted toward information technology, which accounts for more than half of the portfolio, with additional exposure to communication services, industrials, and consumer sectors.
Some of BAI’s largest positions include:
• NVIDIA
• Broadcom
• Taiwan Semiconductor
• Alphabet
• Lam Research
These companies represent core pillars of the AI value chain—from chip design and manufacturing to data infrastructure and deployment.
Notably, the top 10 holdings account for roughly half of total assets, underscoring the fund’s high-conviction approach.
Active Edge in a Fast-Moving Theme
AI is evolving too quickly for static indexes to fully capture. BAI’s active approach allows managers to:
• Identify emerging winners early
• Avoid overvalued names
• Adjust exposures dynamicallyGlobal AI Exposure
BAI invests in both U.S. and international companies, including key semiconductor players in Asia—critical to the AI supply chain.
Institutional-Grade Management
The fund is managed by BlackRock’s technology-focused investment team, bringing deep domain expertise to stock selection.
Performance and Growth
Since its launch, BAI has quickly gained traction:
• Assets under management: ~$11.7B+
• YTD return (2026): ~18%+ (as of 4/16/2026)
• 52-week range: ~$19.70 to ~$39.46
