While still in the early stage of implementation, 5G networks have gained in broad popularity from companies within communication services (NYSE: XLC) and technology sectors (NYSE: XLK) amid an increase of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. IoT devices range from handheld gadgets and wearables to washing machines and refrigerators to cars and even roads themselves. While it's unclear now how broad the scope of IoT technology will be in the future, analysts predict that over 20 billion items will join the IoT within the next decade. That influx of IoT devices will need 5G infrastructure that can handle massive amounts of data, while reducing latency and increasing download speeds.
As 5G networks begin to rollout in the next few years, there will be winners and losers. Telecomm giants such as Verizon (NYSE: VZ), T-Mobile (NASDAQ: TMUS) and AT&T (NYSE: T) have already begun deploying 5G infrastructure in major cities, and tech giants like Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Google (NASDAQ: GOOGL) have started designing smartphones capable of connecting to 5G networks. But beyond these large-cap names, stock picking for the 5G evolution will likely be difficult. That's why there's exchange-traded funds (ETF), which will provide beneficial 5G thematic exposure to an array of companies, lessoning the risk that comes from just picking a few stocks.
Here are some top 5G ETFs to consider:
Vanguard Communication Services ETF (NYSE: VOX)
VOX tracks a market-cap-weighted index of over 100 communication service companies on U.S. stock exchanges. The fund includes traditional telecoms as well as media and internet services companies could also fall into the consumer discretionary (NYSE: XLY) and tech sectors. VOX is large, with $2.73 billion assets under management, and cheap, with an expense ratio of 0.10%. Its largest holdings include Facebook (NASDAQ: FB), Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG), and Comcast (NASDAQ: CMCSA).
SPDR S&P Telecom ETF (NYSE: XTL)
XTL tracks an equal-weighted index of U.S. telecom companies on the S&P. Due to its equal-weight, XTL is not excessively exposed to telecom giants like AT&T and Verizon, but rather offering diversification in the 5G market with holdings in companies like F5 Networks (NASDAQ: FFIV) and Motorola Solutions (NYSE: MSI). While a bit more pricer than its competitor VOX at an expense ratio of 0.35%, XLC offers an alternative 5G spread, but may not yield as big of returns as others on this list.
Defiance Next Gen Connectivity ETF (NYSE: FIVG)
FIVG tracks a tier-weighted index of global equities related to 5G networks. This fund is the first ETF to focus on global companies whose products or services are geared towards the development of 5G networking and communication technologies at an expense ratio of 0.30%.
FIVG is weighted in four tiers: first tier holds 50% weight with companies within the cellular networking and satellites operating in the wireless spectrum; the second tier carrying 25% weight, holding cellphone tower and center data REITs and other companies supporting data infrastructure; the third tier is weighted at 15%, focusing on tech hardware and software services and equipment; and the last tier is weighted at 10% and holds company that offer products like mobile broadband modems and radio technology for connected devices.
Global X Internet of Things Thematic ETF (NASDAQ: SNSR)
SNSR tracks on index of global companies that facilitate the IoT industry. This fund holds relevant companies developing objects with network connectivity weighted by market cap, with a maximum of 6% and a minimum of 0.3% for any given holding. Its current largest holdings include Skyworks Solutions (NASDAQ: SWKS) and Xiaomi (OTC: XIACF). SNSR charges a heavy expense ratio of 0.68%, but offers a broad portfolio into the IoT market.
Global X MSCI China Communication Services ETF (NYSE: CHIC)
CHIC tracks a cap-weighted index of Chinese large- and mid-cap communications services companies, offering great exposure to an incredibly large market outside of blacklists and tariffs imposed by the U.S. government. The fund's fee of 0.66% may seem high, but its relatively fair for the narrow exposure to a single emerging market. CHIC's largest holdings include Tencent (OTC: TCEHY), Baidu (NASDAQ: BIDU) and iQIYI (NASDAQ: IQ).