How to Invest in Robotics in 2025

Investing in robotics is no longer just for venture capitalists. As humanoid robots move from research labs to real-world deployment, investors have more ways than ever to gain exposure to this fast-growing sector. Whether you’re a retail investor or an accredited one, there are multiple strategies to consider.

This guide covers:

• Publicly Traded Robotics Companies – Stocks of major players like Tesla, Nvidia, and UBTech
• Investment DAOs – Decentralized ecosystems like XMAQUINA providing access to private robotics firms
• ETFs and Funds – Traditional investment vehicles with robotics exposure
• Accredited Investor Platforms – Pre-IPO shares of leading startups
• Closed-End Venture Funds – Actively managed funds investing in robotics

Here’s what you need to know to invest in the future of humanoid robotics.

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Investing in Publicly Traded Companies

Available to: Accredited and Retail Investors

As humanoid robotics moves steadily toward mainstream adoption, several listed companies provide exposure to this sector. Despite the industry’s early stage, its trajectory is being defined by major players across AI, semiconductors, consumer technology, and automotive innovation.

Tesla (TSLA): Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot is a flagship project, with Elon Musk predicting mass production potential by late 2025. Tesla’s focus on AI and manufacturing scale makes it a prominent contender. Elon Musk believes that humanoid robots are going to be the biggest product ever. Tesla is listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange. 

Nvidia (NVDA): Nvidia is the most important company leading the AI revolution, supplying essential AI chips and software platforms that will shape the future of humanoid robotics. CEO Jensen Huang has publicly identified 'Physical AI' as the next major growth frontier, spotlighting self-driving cars and humanoid robots as its two primary domains. Nvidia is listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange.

Meta (META): Meta is investing into AI-powered humanoid robotics through its Reality Labs division, targeting consumer and industrial applications. Its precise role in this nascent industry remains undefined, but the investment signals ambition. Meta is listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange.

Hyundai Motor Company: Although Boston Dynamics, a leader in advanced robotics, is not publicly traded, it operates as a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company, offering investors indirect exposure to the sector. Hyundai is listed on the Korea Exchange (KRX), with the ticker 005380.KS.

UBTech Robotics: UBTech is a pioneering developer of humanoid robotics, gaining recognition for its Walker S robot. Deployed in industrial environments, such as automotive factories with partners like Dongfeng and NIO, Walker S excels in tasks including quality inspections and assembly. UBTech made history by going public in December 2023, earning the moniker "the first stock of Chinese humanoid robots." The company is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the ticker 9880.HK.

Xiaomi: Xiaomi is widely recognized for its smartphones and consumer electronics but has increasingly ventured into advanced technology sectors, including electric vehicles (EVs) and robotics. In August 2022, Xiaomi unveiled its first full-sized humanoid robot, CyberOne, designed to perceive 3D space and recognize human emotions, though it has not yet reached commercialization. The company’s commitment to humanoid robotics remains uncertain, as its booming EV business—launched with the SU7 model in 2024—currently commands significant focus and resources. Xiaomi Corporation (ticker: 1810.HK) is publicly traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

Among these companies, UBTech stands out as the only one exclusively dedicated to humanoid robotics, with no diversification into other sectors. In contrast, every other firm listed pursues a broader range of activities. Tesla, however, holds a distinct position due to its integrated approach, developing AI, energy storage, infrastructure, cloud-based updates, and data pipelines—critical components for large-scale humanoid robot deployment.

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Investing in a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO)

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Available to: All Investors Globally

One of cryptocurrency’s most fundamental innovations is its ability to facilitate global capital movement with unprecedented speed and efficiency. Unlike traditional financial systems, which are constrained by geographic restrictions and intermediaries, Web3 enables broad participation in decentralized economies. This has led to the rise of Investment DAOs—Decentralized Autonomous Organizations that pool capital, expand access to high-growth opportunities, and allow communities to invest in emerging sectors like humanoid robotics.

Investment DAOs are redefining collective investing. A notable example is The LAO, launched in April 2020, which has funded over 130 blockchain projects across Ethereum and beyond. Structured as a legally compliant DAO in the United States, it operates within regulatory boundaries while leveraging the transparency and efficiency of Web3. This hybrid approach combines the advantages of decentralized governance with established legal protections, creating a model for sustainable and scalable investment.

XMAQUINA sets itself apart as an Investment DAO centered on "Physical AI" - the integration of artificial intelligence into autonomous systems, with a core focus on humanoid robots. Its guiding thesis is bold: humanoid robots will become the most impactful product in history, driving a "10X" growth per year for the next 6 years. XMAQUINA aims to capitalize on this vision by building a portfolio of stakes in leading private robotics ventures, offering members a unique entry point into this transformative market.

In early 2025, XMAQUINA’s first Genesis Auction raised over $900,000, laying the foundation for future investments. Proceeds from this and upcoming auctions are building the treasury, which is being deployed into promising humanoid robotics companies. The $DEUS token serves as a governance tool, enabling holders to participate in treasury decisions and shape the strategic direction of the DAO.

For more information on XMAQUINA’s investment approach, governance structure, and long-term vision, visit xmaquina.io.

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Investing in ETFs

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Available to: Accredited Investors and Some Retail Investors (Jurisdiction Dependent)

An exchange-traded fund (ETF) is a financial instrument that pools investments into a diversified portfolio of stocks, offering exposure to specific industries or themes without requiring investors to pick individual companies.

At present, no exchange-traded fund (ETF) is exclusively focused on humanoid robotics. However, two ETFs provide exposure to the broader robotics and automation sector, though neither currently includes companies directly developing humanoid robots.

• ROBO Global Robotics & Automation ETF (ROBO): This fund invests in a diverse range of global companies involved in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence. While some holdings are advancing related technologies, none are actively developing humanoid robots.
• Botz Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF (BOTZ): This ETF includes companies such as Nvidia and Intuitive Surgical, offering exposure to automation and AI-driven industries. However, none of the firms in its portfolio are engaged in humanoid robotics development.

As of March 2025, neither ETF provides direct investment in humanoid robots. While portfolio strategies may shift over time, there is no certainty that these funds will allocate capital toward humanoid robotics in the near future.

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Investing in Closed-End Funds

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Available to: Accredited Investors and U.S. Retail Investors ($500 Minimum Investment)

Closed-end funds (CEFs) are actively managed investment vehicles that raise a fixed amount of capital and trade on exchanges like stocks. Unlike ETFs, they do not issue or redeem shares on demand, which can lead to price fluctuations independent of the fund’s net asset value.

One notable option for investors seeking exposure to private humanoid robotics firms is the ARK Venture Fund (ARKVX). This actively managed closed-end interval fund focuses on long-term capital growth by investing in both public and private companies driving technological innovation.

As of February 2025, ARKVX held:

• 2.28% of its portfolio in Apptronik—a company developing humanoid robots for industrial applications.
• 2.07% in Figure AI—a firm working on general-purpose humanoid robots.

The fund is accessible to U.S. self-directed investors with a minimum investment of $500 through platforms such as SoFi. However, non-U.S. retail investors are currently unable to participate in this fund.

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Investing via Accredited Investor Platforms

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Available to: Accredited Investors Only

Accredited investor platforms provide access to pre-IPO shares of private companies, allowing investors to acquire equity before these firms go public. Platforms such as Hiive, EquityZen, and Forge Global facilitate transactions between accredited investors and early shareholders, including employees and early backers of robotics companies like Apptronik and Figure AI.

To qualify as an accredited investor, individuals must have an annual income exceeding $200,000 ($300,000 for joint filers) or a net worth above $1 million, excluding their primary residence. These regulatory requirements restrict participation to a select group, limiting access for traditional retail investors.

While these platforms offer an entry point into high-growth private companies, they come with challenges: liquidity is limited, transaction processes can be complex, and investment timelines are often uncertain. As a result, participation requires careful consideration of risk and capital lock-up periods.

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“The robotics sector is entering a phase of exponential growth that mirrors the early days of cryptocurrency—except with a fundamental difference: tangible utility. Unlike digital assets, humanoid robots will integrate directly into industries, creating immediate economic impact. With labor shortages, rising automation demand, and advancements in AI, robotics is positioned to deliver sustainable, long-term value at a pace that outstrips even the most disruptive blockchain innovations.”

— Jessica Alvarez, Founding Delegate, XMAQUINA DAO

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Bullish on robotics? So are we.

XMAQUINA is a decentralized ecosystem giving members direct access to the rise of humanoid robotics and Physical AI—technologies poised to reshape the global economy.

Join thousands of futurists building XMAQUINA DAO and follow us on X for the latest updates.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. XMAQUINA is not a licensed financial advisor. Investing in robotics, DAOs, and related assets carries risk, including potential loss. Regulations vary by jurisdiction; consult a professional before making financial decisions. Mentions of companies or funds are for educational purposes only and do not imply endorsement. Information is provided as-is without guarantees of accuracy or completeness.

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