Thematic ETFs globally attracted net inflows of $923.69 million in April, marking the fifth consecutive month of gains and pushing year-to-date net inflows to $10.81 billion, according to ETF research firm ETFGI’s data.
Thematic ETFs, which focus on specific investment themes such as technology or clean energy, have gained $10.81 billion in net inflows so far. According to the data provider, this year’s figure ranks as the fourth highest ever, trailing the 2021 record of $61.42 billion.
Total assets invested in thematic ETFs globally slipped to $317.43 billion by the end of April, down from January’s record high of $329.79 billion. However, 1,582 thematic ETF funds were listed worldwide, offering over 3,000 individual listings across 53 exchanges in 41 countries.
Investors call out ‘shy active’ ETFs
A significant share of April’s inflows came from the top 20 ETFs by net new assets, which collectively attracted $3.47 billion. The standout performer was China’s E Fund CSI Science and Technology Innovation Board 50 ETF, which gathered $490.68 million in net inflows. Since the launch of the first thematic ETF—the iShares North American Natural Resources ETF in 2001—investors have embraced thematic funds as a way to access megatrends. According to ETFGI, this growth is supported by a wide range of providers, now 276 globally, catering to varied investor interests.
“The S&P 500 Index declined by 0.68% in April and is down 4.92% year-to-date (YTD) in 2025. In contrast, the Developed Markets Ex-U.S. Index rose 4.86% in April and is up 10.85% YTD. Among developed markets, Spain and Portugal posted the strongest gains in April, rising 8.65% and 7.67%, respectively. The emerging markets index increased by 0.88% during April and is up 1.80% YTD. Within emerging markets, Hungary led with a 10.78% gain, followed closely by Mexico at 10.40%,” said Deborah Fuhr, managing partner, founder and owner of ETFGI.
