- Sector
- Financial Services
- Industry
- Asset Management
- Address
- 400 Howard Street San Francisco CA United States of America 94105
- IPO Date
- Oct 21, 2024
- Business
- iShares A.I. Innovation and Tech Active ETF (BAI) is an actively managed exchange-traded fund that seeks to maximize total return by investing in a concentrated portfolio of 20 to 40 global equities tied to artificial intelligence and technology across all market capitalizations. Issued by BlackRock under the iShares brand, the ETF targets companies generating revenue from layers of the AI stack, including infrastructure such as AI power, accelerated computing, and cloud infrastructure; intelligence encompassing AI models and data; and applications like data software, tools, AI services, and solutions. Holdings, selected through proprietary fundamental research, feature leading firms such as NVIDIA Corporation, Broadcom Inc., Meta Platforms Inc., Microsoft Corporation, Snowflake Inc., Oracle Corporation, SoftBank Group Corp., Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, Celestica Inc., and Fabrinet, among others comprising approximately 45 positions.
Launched on October 21, 2024, and listed on the NYSE Arca, BAI operates primarily in the thematic equity segment focused on AI innovation and tech growth, with a net expense ratio of 0.55% following fee waivers. The fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in AI, technology, and related companies domiciled in the United States or non-U.S. issuers, serving investors seeking exposure to global AI market leaders and projected innovators across various revenue and profitability thresholds. Headquartered in New York through its issuer BlackRock Inc., the ETF facilitates semi-annual distributions and emphasizes high-conviction active management without pursuing ESG strategies .
In a key recent development, BlackRock launched BAI on October 22, 2024, as part of a strategic expansion to broaden investor access to global AI and technology growth opportunities, alongside the simultaneous introduction of the iShares Technology Opportunities Active ETF (TEK). This launch aligns with the early stages of the AI revolution, positioning BAI to capitalize on infrastructure, cybersecurity, and broader AI advancements anticipated through 2025 and beyond. No major acquisitions, funding rounds, partnerships, or operational reorganizations have been reported for the ETF since inception, with performance reflecting strong year-to-date total returns of approximately 36.50% as of late 2025.