In 2026, capital flow is increasingly concentrated in three primary themes across global markets: AI & Semiconductors, Alternative Energy, and Commodities. The AI infrastructure sector leads, with South Korea’s ETF (EWY) surging approximately 80%, largely due to memory chip demand from Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. Taiwan’s ETF (EWT) also shows strong performance, gaining around 50% this year, partly driven by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, which constitutes over 22% of its portfolio. Collectively, capital expenditure from the five largest tech companies surpassed $400 billion in 2025, projected to rise 75% in 2026, affirming a multi-year capex cycle centered on semiconductors.
Alternative energy themes are experiencing a resurgence, with ETFs like Lithium & Battery Tech (LIT) gaining 137% over the past year. The increasing reliance on clean energy sources like nuclear and solar power, driven by AI demand and geopolitical concerns surrounding energy security, underscores this momentum. The pipeline for data center electricity, projected at 1,050 TWh by 2026, indicates robust growth potential.
Commodity prices are also on the rise due to supply constraints exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, which is crucial for global oil trade. Brent crude surpassed $100 per barrel, reflecting a significant surge. The Broad Commodity Tracker ETF (GSG) increased by 25% in March alone, contributing to nearly 50% year-to-date performance. Rising demand for copper and lithium for clean energy solutions further connects these themes in a tightly woven market cycle.
5 Stocks Our Experts Predict Could Double In the Next Year
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