AI and Robotics Era Confirmed at 'CES 2026'... Proactive Strategy with RISE AI & Robot ETF

KB Asset Management announced on January 13 that artificial intelligence (AI) and the robotics industry have firmly established themselves as key mid- to long-term growth sectors, as demonstrated at CES 2026, the world's largest IT and technology exhibition. The company proposed the 'RISE AI & Robot ETF,' which invests across the entire related value chain, as an alternative investment option.

At CES 2026, recently held in Las Vegas, USA, there was a consensus that AI technology, which has traditionally focused on software, is rapidly evolving into "Physical AI" by integrating with physical hardware such as robots and automation devices. As next-generation robotics technology, including humanoid robots, spreads across industries, interest in investment strategies that encompass both AI and robotics is expected to grow even further.

The 'RISE AI & Robot ETF,' which was listed in 2023, is a product related to humanoid robots and invests across the core value chain, including both AI software (the brain of the robot) and hardware (the body). Its distinguishing feature is diversified investment in companies expected to benefit from growth across innovative sectors such as AI, robotics and automation, semiconductors and electronics, and biotechnology.

Unlike existing domestic robotics ETFs, which focus on large-cap stocks, the RISE AI & Robot ETF has increased the proportion of KOSDAQ-listed stocks to over 80%, thereby strengthening its linkage with growth stocks within the AI and robotics industries. It aims for differentiation by broadly including small- and mid-cap growth companies.

The underlying index, the 'iSelect AI & Robot Index,' applies revenue-related criteria when selecting its components, consisting of pure AI and robotics companies with high industry relevance. Of the 36 total components, the AI industry accounts for 51% and the robotics industry for 49%, ensuring a balanced allocation.

Major holdings include Hyundai Autoever (6.09%), Naver (5.94%), Doosan Robotics (5.61%), Rainbow Robotics (4.83%), SPG (4.77%), LG CNS (4.70%), and SOS Lab (4.60%).

The fund's performance is also notable. According to the fund evaluation firm FnGuide, it recorded a six-month return of 30.46% and a one-year return of 50.30%, effectively reflecting the growth momentum of the AI and robotics industries.

Lee Dojin, manager at KB Asset Management, stated, "As confirmed at CES 2026, AI and robotics are becoming established as key mid- to long-term industries rather than short-term trends. The RISE AI & Robot ETF will be a representative investment destination in 2026 for investors seeking simultaneous exposure to both the AI and robotics sectors."