RBC iShares Launched A.I. Innovation and Tech ETF
The new XBAI fund offers investors targeted exposure to global companies advancing artificial intelligence technologies.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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The RBC iShares alliance has launched the iShares A.I. Innovation and Tech ETF, which began trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange. This new fund focuses on equity securities across the artificial intelligence value chain to support long-term capital growth.
Why it matters
The fund provides a structured way for investors to access growth potential tied to both established industry leaders and emerging artificial intelligence beneficiaries. It is designed to capture market upside as AI integration continues to reshape technology sectors globally.
The XBAI fund carries an annual management fee of 0.70% and mandates that at least 80% of its net assets remain invested in artificial intelligence and technology equity securities. The portfolio encompasses a global reach, including both U.S. and non-U.S. company holdings.
The players
BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited
This firm is the designated manager for the new iShares A.I. Innovation and Tech ETF.
RBC iShares
This strategic alliance provides investment products and services to Canadian clients.
The details
Managed by BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited, the ETF identifies investment opportunities ranging from core infrastructure to AI applications. The investment team evaluates companies based on their current or expected exposure to artificial intelligence to determine eligibility for the portfolio.
Timeline
As of June 30, 2026, iShares managed approximately US$6.2 trillion in assets.
The iShares A.I. Innovation and Tech ETF launched on October 13, 2026.
The Tech Race
This ETF launch mirrors the broader trend of financial institutions creating dedicated thematic vehicles to capitalize on the rapid growth of generative AI. It positions RBC iShares to compete for capital flows moving into the AI sector by simplifying access to a complex, multi-layered technological ecosystem.
Canadian investors can now trade XBAI on the Toronto Stock Exchange to gain diversified exposure to the artificial intelligence sector. The fund offers a lower-barrier entry point for those wanting to track AI development without selecting individual tech stocks themselves.
The takeaway
Investors looking for thematic exposure should consider how the 0.70% management fee impacts long-term returns relative to broad market indices. Always evaluate whether an AI-specific fund aligns with your personal risk tolerance and existing portfolio diversification.
Further reading
For broader trends in the sector, visit Artificial Intelligence.
More information
For more information, visit the RBC iShares alliance information portal.
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Do you prefer using actively managed funds to invest in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence?
