Looking to invest in emerging trends like AI, renewable energy, or electric vehicles? Thematic research tools can help you identify opportunities and make informed decisions. Here's a quick overview of the 7 best tools for thematic investing:
- Schwab Investing Themes™: Offers 40+ themes with up to 25 stocks each, real-time tracking, and no minimum fees. Great for beginners with a $250 minimum investment.
- Morningstar Thematic Indexes: Provides research-driven and consensus-based indexes, focusing on revenue potential, profit impact, and supply chain roles.
- Bloomberg Thematic Indices: Features 468 indices across 33 themes, with advanced analytics and quarterly updates. Ideal for institutional investors.
- Koyfin: A user-friendly platform for screening over 100,000 securities with 5,900+ filters. Free and paid plans available.
- AlphaSense Theme Explorer: AI-powered research with real-time monitoring, sentiment analysis, and premium research materials.
- FactSet Thematic Intelligence: Combines AI and NLP for qualitative and quantitative analysis, with tools for tracking ESG and market signals.
- Thematic AI Research Platform: Focused on AI-driven theme discovery, risk assessment, and portfolio automation.
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Key Features | Pricing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schwab Investing Themes™ | 40+ themes, no fees, $250 minimum | Free | Beginner investors |
| Morningstar Thematic Indexes | Research-driven indexes, benchmarks | Varies | Index-based investors |
| Bloomberg Thematic Indices | 468 indices, advanced analytics | $31,980/year | Institutional investors |
| Koyfin | Advanced screening, custom dashboards | Free – $179/month | Active portfolio managers |
| AlphaSense Theme Explorer | AI-powered search, premium sources | Custom pricing | Research professionals |
| FactSet Thematic Intelligence | AI, ESG tracking, API integration | Custom pricing | Asset managers |
| Thematic AI Research Platform | AI-driven portfolio automation | Varies | Data-driven investors |
Each tool caters to different needs, from beginner-friendly platforms like Schwab to advanced AI-driven solutions like AlphaSense and FactSet. Choose based on your investment goals, budget, and preferred features.
Use the Right Thematic ETFs Tools for the Right Job
1. Schwab Investing Themes™
Introduced in December 2023, Schwab Investing Themes™ combines cutting-edge research and advanced technology to spotlight emerging market trends. With over 40 themes, each featuring up to 25 carefully selected stocks, the platform makes thematic investing more accessible and intuitive.
"Today's thematic investing allows you to pursue your interests beyond traditional boundaries like market sectors or the obvious industry leaders." - Inga Rachwald, Director and Senior Investment Portfolio Strategist at Schwab Asset Management
At its core, the platform uses a proprietary natural language processing (NLP) algorithm to sift through massive datasets - ranging from patent filings to clinical trials - to pinpoint relevant companies objectively.
Key Features
- Customization Options: Investors can tailor their portfolios by adjusting stock weightings, adding or removing positions, and fine-tuning their exposure within each theme.
- Real-Time Performance Tracking: Tools are available to monitor the performance of themes and evaluate individual stocks.
- Regular Theme Updates: Themes are periodically reviewed and updated to align with evolving market trends.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | $250 |
| Access Fee | $0 |
| Trading Commission | $0 for online trades |
| Number of Themes | 40+ |
| Stocks per Theme | Up to 25 |
| Theme Updates | Periodic reviews |
One standout feature is the ability to directly manage holdings without incurring fees, all while requiring a low minimum investment of just $250.
The platform’s research-driven approach highlights opportunities in transformative areas like Artificial Intelligence, Electric Vehicles, and Renewable Energy. By leveraging this systematic framework, investors can stay ahead of dynamic market trends while retaining full control and visibility over their investments.
"Schwab Investing Themes is a powerful new way for people to invest in ideas and areas they believe in, and as Schwab has done many times before, we're taking something that has historically been very difficult for individual investors to do on their own and making it significantly easier, more accessible and affordable." - Jonathan Craig, Managing Director, Head of Investor Services at Charles Schwab
This comprehensive and user-friendly platform sets a strong standard as we delve into other thematic research tools.
2. Morningstar Thematic Indexes
Morningstar Thematic Indexes provide focused exposure to specific investment themes by drawing on insights from over 100 analysts. These indexes span categories like Technology, Physical World, Social, and Broad Thematic trends.
Performance Insights
In the first quarter of 2025, the Morningstar Global Healthcare Innovation Index recorded a solid return of +9.0%. In contrast, the Morningstar Global Cloud Computing Index dropped by -11.5%. During this same period, the Morningstar Global Markets Index saw a smaller decline of -1.4%.
Methodology and Framework
Morningstar's indexes rely on a structured scoring system to evaluate companies based on:
| Evaluation Criteria | Focus of Assessment |
|---|---|
| Revenue Potential | Projected 5-year revenue linked to theme exposure |
| Profit Impact | Expected growth in profits tied to the theme |
| Supply Chain Role | The company’s role in delivering theme-related products or services |
Dual Index Offerings
Morningstar provides two distinct types of thematic indexes:
- Research-Driven Thematic Indexes: Built using proprietary analysis and insights.
- Thematic Consensus Indexes: Based on the collective holdings of public thematic funds.
These options ensure a robust framework that adapts to the dynamic nature of thematic investing.
Market Context
Thematic investing has experienced considerable growth in recent years, highlighted by:
- The launch of 589 new thematic funds worldwide in 2021.
- Total assets under management reaching $800 billion.
- Historical trends showing that 75% of thematic funds close within 15 years.
Investment Considerations
To make the most of thematic indexes:
- Use them as benchmarks when evaluating thematic funds.
- Opt for funds with lower costs and experienced management teams.
- Limit thematic investments to a small portion of a diversified portfolio, as they can be volatile.
Similar to Schwab Investing Themes™, Morningstar’s approach equips investors with tools to pinpoint emerging trends. By relying on research-driven strategies, it helps navigate the complexities of thematic investing with greater confidence.
3. Bloomberg Thematic Indices
Bloomberg's thematic indices offer advanced tools for identifying emerging trends across various sectors. Introduced in October 2024, the Bloomberg Thematic Benchmark Equity Indices family features 468 indices grouped into 33 thematic baskets.
Index Structure and Coverage
The indices are divided into two main series:
| Series Type | Focus | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Aggregate Series | Broad exposure | Includes companies with varying levels of involvement in the theme |
| Focus Series | Concentrated exposure | Targets companies with significant exposure to specific themes |
Theme Categories and Selection
Bloomberg Intelligence analysts have curated thematic baskets that highlight key trends shaping the future, including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Nuclear
- Decentralized Energy
- Semiconductors
- Cloud
- Electric Vehicles
- Cybersecurity
- Digital Payments
This targeted categorization provides tailored insights into performance and market dynamics.
Performance and Integration
The Bloomberg Artificial Intelligence Index (BAIAT) demonstrated strong results, outperforming the Bloomberg US 100 Index by 27.6% over a five-year period.
Market Impact
"Thematic investing has gained much popularity in recent years, allowing investors to tap into emerging trends rather than just traditional industry sectors or company fundamentals."
– Allison Stone, Head of Multi-Asset Index Product Management, Bloomberg Indices
Methodology Framework
Bloomberg employs a transparent, rules-based methodology to maintain the relevance and accuracy of its indices. Key features include:
- Quarterly reconstitution and rebalancing
- Transparent methodology to ensure clarity
- Eligibility requirements, such as inclusion in the Bloomberg World Aggregate parent index
- Flexible weighting options, including modified market capitalization and equal weighting
This structured approach ensures the indices remain aligned with evolving market themes.
Latest Innovation
In April 2025, Bloomberg introduced the Global Commodity Transition Metals Index (GCOMTM). This index tracks essential metals for the energy transition, such as copper, aluminum, nickel, silver, platinum, cobalt, and lithium.
Research Integration
Bloomberg's thematic indices are underpinned by comprehensive market research. This research supports precise trend identification and includes tools for analyzing theme exposure, conducting quarterly reviews, assessing revenue alignment, and monitoring broader market trends.
4. Koyfin Thematic Screening
Koyfin provides access to over 100,000 global securities with more than 5,900 filter criteria, catering to a diverse user base of over 30,000 financial advisors and 500,000 investors.
Advanced Screening Framework
Koyfin's screening process is structured into three straightforward steps:
| Step | Action | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Define Universe | Select scope | Choose from countries, sectors, ETFs, and exchanges |
| Select Filters | Set criteria | Apply fundamental and technical filters |
| Name | Label screen | Save and organize custom screens for future use |
Thematic Search Capabilities
The platform's Advanced Search feature allows users to pinpoint companies referencing specific themes. For instance, searching for "AI" mentions enables users to filter results by event types (like earnings calls or presentations), refine by major U.S. indices, and sort by sectors, providing rich context for each mention.
Global Coverage and Data Integration
Koyfin offers a broad range of data and tools to support investors:
- Market Data: Real-time pricing and analytics
- Financial Analysis: Detailed global equity data and analyst estimates
- Custom Dashboards: Tailored tools for tracking market trends
- ETF Analysis: In-depth exploration of fund composition and performance
Pricing Structure
| Plan | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free | 2 custom screens, basic dashboards | New investors |
| Plus | Unlimited screens, filings search | Active traders |
| Pro | Custom formulas, mutual fund data | Professional investors |
| Advisor Pro | $179/month per user | Financial advisors |
Expert Perspective
"Koyfin is an excellent research tool and with its global coverage of equities, analyst estimates and financials, it allows investors to carry out fast and comprehensive analysis. Koyfin is a great product!"
– Puru Saxena, Independent Investor
Advanced Features
Koyfin also includes additional tools to enhance research capabilities:
- Transcript Analysis: Search through earnings calls and presentations with precision
- Custom Formulas: Advanced filtering options available for Pro users
"Koyfin's service is perfect for what I need. It's even comparable to the service that Bloomberg offers!"
– Jacob Radke, Capital Markets Analyst at Fjell Capital
With its institutional-grade data and user-friendly interface, Koyfin is a powerful tool for investors focused on thematic research and analysis. While the platform shines in equity and ETF analysis, users should note its current lack of coverage for corporate and municipal bonds. It’s a solid choice for those seeking advanced screening tools to support their investment strategies.
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5. AlphaSense Theme Explorer
AlphaSense Theme Explorer leverages AI and natural language processing (NLP) to streamline thematic research. Expanding on the advanced screening tools mentioned earlier, AlphaSense adds depth to market insights with its AI-driven capabilities. As of October 2024, the platform supports over 4,000 corporate clients, including 85% of the S&P 100 companies.
AI-Powered Research Capabilities
AlphaSense's AI features are designed to extract insights efficiently from its vast content library:
| Feature | Capability | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Synonyms™ | Expands contextual searches | Captures related concepts automatically |
| Sentiment Analysis | Detects emotional context | Spots emerging market sentiment trends |
| Snippet Explorer | Provides theme-specific views | Analyzes topics over time in a single view |
| Real-time Monitoring | Sends automated alerts | Offers instant updates on market movements |
These AI tools integrate seamlessly with the analytical frameworks found in other platforms, creating a cohesive approach to thematic research.
Extensive Research Library
AlphaSense offers access to a vast array of research materials, including:
- 10,000+ documents on private and public companies
- 10M+ private company profiles spanning EMEA and Japan
- Wall Street Insights®, featuring research from over 1,500 premium providers
Advanced Theme Analysis Tools
The platform provides robust tools for monitoring and analyzing trends, such as:
- Real-time alerts for market shifts
- Personalized tracking for themes and sectors
- Competitive benchmarking to evaluate market positioning
Insights from Industry Experts
"AlphaSense is my primary tool for surfacing insights on macroeconomic and industry themes. I could not as easily do my job without it."
- Howard Mason, Financial Analyst, Renaissance Macro
Impressive Performance Metrics
AlphaSense achieved $200 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR) by April 2024, doubling its revenue in less than two years. The platform is trusted by 80% of the top asset managers.
Integration with Popular Tools
AlphaSense integrates effortlessly with platforms like Microsoft 365/SharePoint, Box, Google Drive, and S3, making it easy to incorporate into existing workflows.
Accelerating Decision-Making
"A task that usually takes hours was completed in 10 minutes during a client call."
- Diversified Industries Associate, Bulge Bracket Firm
AlphaSense empowers users to quickly identify emerging trends, enabling faster and more informed decision-making during critical moments.
6. FactSet Thematic Intelligence
FactSet's Thematic Intelligence combines AI, machine learning, and natural language processing (NLP) to deliver insights for thematic investments. With approximately 180,000 users globally, it has become a key part of investment workflows.
AI-Powered Thematic Analysis
The platform focuses on three main areas:
| Analysis Type | Features | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Qualitative Analysis | AI processes unstructured text | Transforms raw data into actionable insights |
| Quantitative Integration | API and data feed functionality | Merges thematic scores with core financial data |
| Automated Monitoring | Tracks real-time market signals | Detects new opportunities as they emerge |
Broad Data Coverage
FactSet's ESG Thematic Revenue Exposure data spans 12,200 North American entities, with records dating back to 2012. This data allows users to:
- Analyze thematic exposure across various sectors
- Track how companies align with specific themes
- Examine historical trends and their evolution
Tools for Investment Professionals
FactSet offers tools like Pitch Creator, FactSet Mercury, and Research Management Solutions (RMS) to streamline research processes. These tools automate insights and centralize internal research.
Seamless Integration for Asset Managers
"Our joint solution enables asset managers to combine thematic exposure scores with the full spectrum of fundamental and quantitative data available from FactSet, all seamlessly integrated via APIs and data feeds."
- Jonathan Reeve, EVP, Head of Content and Technology Solutions at FactSet
Enhanced Security Features
FactSet prioritizes data security by using private large language model (LLM) instances, strict data protocols, and secure client systems. These measures ensure that its real-time insights remain both reliable and protected.
Market Intelligence Advancements
In September 2022, FactSet introduced its Intelligent Prospecting and Monitoring solution. This tool integrates CID's AI capabilities with FactSet's comprehensive database to enhance thematic research.
"When qualitative insights mesh with fundamental and unstructured data, incredible things can happen."
- Alexander Loerch, Managing Director at CID
Proven Performance
With nearly 20 years of experience in machine learning and NLP, FactSet continues to lead in thematic intelligence by offering:
- Predictive analytics through integration with DataRobot
- Access to the Open:FactSet Marketplace for expanded datasets
7. Thematic AI Research Platform
Advanced AI-Powered Analysis
The newest thematic research platforms, powered by AI, bring cutting-edge tools to the table. These platforms sift through massive datasets - like news articles, financial reports, and regulatory filings - to uncover key insights that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Comprehensive Data Processing
These platforms stand out for their ability to handle complex tasks with precision. Here's a look at some of their standout features:
| Feature | Capability | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Portfolio Automation | Automates critical portfolio and ETF workflows | Simplifies investment management |
| Theme Discovery | Analyzes news to identify theme-related companies | Pinpoints emerging market opportunities |
| Risk Assessment | Processes financial statements and transaction histories | Flags potential risks and anomalies |
| Strategy Development | Enables portfolio building and backtesting | Helps validate investment strategies |
These tools form the backbone of platforms designed to deliver actionable insights and improve performance.
Performance Metrics
The results speak for themselves. According to Intelligent Alpha, over 70% of their AI-assisted investment strategies outperform traditional benchmarks. Meanwhile, McKinsey estimates that AI could contribute up to $4.4 trillion to the global economy by 2030.
Investment Process Enhancement
By leveraging advanced analytics, this platform enhances every stage of the investment process.
"The tool allows for the selection of a broader range of stocks, going beyond the obvious choices that are already well-known."
– Rui Fernandes, J.P. Morgan's head of markets trading structuring
Key strengths include:
- Trend Discovery: Identifies emerging patterns to craft resilient strategies.
- Performance Tracking: Continuously monitors positions and evaluates the impact of market events.
Value Chain Analysis
Jay Jacobs, BlackRock's U.S. Head of Thematic and Active ETFs, underscores the importance of taking a broader view:
"I think the one takeaway for investors is to really consider, do they have exposure to the full value chain of artificial intelligence?"
This comprehensive approach ensures investors can capitalize on opportunities across the entire AI ecosystem.
Data-Driven Advantages
What sets this platform apart is its ability to go beyond simple automation. It uses data in powerful ways, including:
- Analyzing text efficiently
- Providing objective insights
- Recognizing patterns
- Adapting to market changes in real time
Market Integration
Europe has taken the lead in this space, holding 55% of global assets. Younger investors, in particular, are showing strong interest in these platforms.
Real-Time Monitoring
The platform doesn’t stop at analysis - it keeps tabs on the ever-changing market landscape. It offers continuous updates on:
- Market trends
- News developments
- Investment opportunities
- Portfolio exposures
This real-time tracking ensures investors stay informed and ready to act.
Tool Features Comparison
This section breaks down the standout features of each tool, helping you fine-tune your thematic investment research approach.
Core Features and Pricing
| Tool | Key Features | Pricing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schwab Investing Themes™ | Theme-based screening, market analysis | Free | Beginner investors |
| Bloomberg Thematic Indices | Real-time data, advanced analytics | $31,980/year | Institutional investors |
| Koyfin | Custom dashboards, screening | Free – $179/month | Active portfolio managers |
| AlphaSense Theme Explorer | AI-powered search with 10,000+ premium sources | Custom pricing | Research professionals |
This table highlights the essential features and pricing tiers, offering a quick snapshot of what each tool brings to the table.
Performance and User Experience
AlphaSense stands out for its extensive coverage of premium sources, making it a strong choice for in-depth research. On the other hand, Koyfin combines affordability with an intuitive interface, making it accessible for those managing portfolios actively.
Advanced Capabilities
The tools excel in different areas of analysis. From real-time market tracking to impact-focused evaluations, each platform brings unique strengths. The inclusion of AI-driven tools further enhances the speed and efficiency of research across these platforms.
Cost-Benefit Considerations
Pricing varies widely depending on the depth of features. Koyfin offers a free tier and an affordable $39/month basic plan for individual investors, with the $79/month Pro plan adding advanced analytics. Meanwhile, Bloomberg Terminal, priced at $31,980 annually, caters to institutional users with its unmatched data and analysis capabilities.
Integration and Accessibility
Modern platforms focus on seamless data integration to simplify workflows. AlphaSense, for instance, leverages tools like Smart Summaries and Generative Search to streamline the research process, enabling users to gather and process information more efficiently.
Data Coverage
Each tool offers distinct data strengths. Bloomberg excels in real-time market data, AlphaSense provides access to a vast array of premium sources, and Koyfin emphasizes market dashboards and ETF research, catering to different investor priorities.
Key Considerations for Selection
Choosing the right platform depends on several factors:
- Budget: Aligning the cost with your available investment resources.
- Features: Ensuring the tool meets your specific research needs.
- Workflow Integration: Evaluating how well the platform fits into your existing processes.
- Investment Goals: Matching the tool's capabilities with your strategic objectives.
These factors offer a framework for selecting the platform that best supports your investment research.
Final Thoughts
The detailed comparisons above highlight how thematic research tools can be pivotal for trend-based investing. These tools offer a structured way to identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.
"There is growing conviction that thematic equities offer exposure to faster growing segments of the market that are clearly differentiated from traditional, long-only equity", says Gertjan van der Geer, Senior Investment Manager at Pictet Asset Management.
To get the most out of these platforms, consider the following strategies:
- Define Clear Parameters: Set well-defined themes while allowing flexibility for sub-themes and portfolio holdings.
- Combine Analysis Methods: Use a mix of quantitative screening and fundamental research to identify companies with strong performance metrics and competitive edges.
- Track Theme Evolution: Reassess portfolios quarterly to ensure they align with evolving themes and your overall strategy.
Success in thematic investing hinges on understanding market dynamics and applying thoughtful strategies. These may include:
- Establishing clear timelines for research
- Using robust risk management practices
- Cross-checking insights from multiple platforms
- Systematically reviewing corporate communications
"The biggest opportunity [of thematic global equities] is to benefit from true long-termism. We buy when others are scared and sell when markets become irrationally exuberant", van der Geer adds.
FAQs
How can thematic research tools help investors spot emerging market opportunities?
Thematic research tools are designed to help investors identify new opportunities in the market by analyzing major trends in areas like technology, renewable energy, and global economic shifts. These tools offer in-depth insights into specific themes, making it easier for investors to align their strategies with sectors that demonstrate strong growth potential.
By concentrating on long-term trends - like breakthroughs in artificial intelligence or the global move toward cleaner energy - these tools empower investors to make well-informed decisions. This method not only highlights sectors with promise but also helps improve portfolio performance by tapping into areas poised for future expansion.
What should investors look for when choosing a thematic research tool?
When choosing a thematic research tool, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. First, look for a tool that offers detailed data and insights on specific themes, including both market trends and broader economic factors. Tools that let you customize your experience - like building personalized indices or filtering based on specific criteria - can make your research more targeted and efficient.
It's also important to select tools that provide reliable research and analysis, such as in-depth reports and historical data, to help you make well-informed decisions. A simple and intuitive interface, along with seamless integration with your current investment platforms, can further improve the experience, making the tool both practical and easy to navigate.
What are the best ways for beginners to use thematic research tools to invest in trends like AI and renewable energy?
Beginners looking to invest in areas like AI or renewable energy can benefit from thematic research tools. These tools simplify the process by grouping stocks or funds into specific themes, allowing you to explore sectors you're passionate about without needing deep market expertise.
For instance, some platforms offer thematic ETFs - collections of stocks tied to a particular trend. These ETFs make it easier to spread your investments across multiple companies within a growing industry. Additionally, certain tools provide curated stock recommendations and insights focused on emerging themes, keeping you updated on opportunities in fast-evolving fields like AI and clean energy.
Using these resources can help beginners feel more confident and informed while navigating the complexities of dynamic markets.
