Today, we discuss the latest insights released by MSCI: innovation is breaking down traditional industry barriers, especially as AI and robotics sweep across the market like a storm. Investors are no longer limited to single-industry analysis but are capturing cross-industry disruptions and long-term trends through “thematic investing.” Data Source: MSCI, as of September 2025, based on the MSCI USA Index.
▍1. Innovation is No Longer Limited to Tech Stocks
Traditionally, we have thought of AI and robotics as exclusive to the technology sector. However, MSCI’s data shows that these innovations have permeated various industries. Companies with revenues related to robotics/AI are not confined to the tech sector. On the contrary, AI-driven transformations have become ubiquitous—market capitalization in sectors such as communication services, consumer discretionary, and healthcare has reached double-digit percentages!
What does this mean? Simply put, if you only focus on tech stocks, you may miss out on numerous opportunities. For instance, a healthcare company optimizing drug development with AI, or a consumer company enhancing supply chain efficiency with robotics, have become mainstream.
▍2. Investment Themes Exposed by the MSCI USA Index
The MSCI USA Index covers major U.S. stocks, and its theme exposure is calculated through a weighted sum: the scores of constituent stocks for specific themes are aggregated after adjusting for market capitalization. The results show:
- Robotics and AI Theme: Significant exposure in non-tech sectors such as communication services, consumer discretionary, and healthcare (double-digit market capitalization percentage).
- Overall Trend: Innovation, disruption, and structural changes are spanning the entire market. Investors can precisely capture these opportunities through MSCI’s thematic indices (such as the Robotics & AI Index) and industry indices.
For example, exposure beyond technology allows us to see the universality of AI: from telecom giants optimizing networks with AI, to e-commerce platforms automating warehousing with robotics, to hospitals using AI for diagnostic assistance.
▍3. Why is Thematic Analysis So Important?
In 2025, the global economy faces uncertainty, and traditional industry classifications can no longer fully explain market dynamics. MSCI emphasizes that supplementing industry analysis with themes can better understand how innovation “cuts into” the market.
- Opportunities: Identify high-growth areas, such as the AI-driven healthcare revolution or consumer intelligence.
▍4. Insights
The wave of innovative technology, AI, and robotics is not science fiction but a current reality. MSCI’s data reminds us: do not be constrained by industry boundaries; embrace cross-industry thematic investing to profit from disruptions. In 2025, the winners in the stock market are likely to be those savvy investors who have positioned themselves early.