Lunate launches thematic ETF on Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange

Abu Dhabi-based investment manager Lunate plans to capitalize on the rapid expansion of so-called thematic exchange-traded funds with the launch of a new portfolio of ETFs, starting with a fund based on companies developing quantum computing technology.

The Boreas Solactive Quantum Computing UCITS ETF, which tracks the Solactive Developed Quantum Computing Index, will list on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange on Sept. 22, The National reports. 

Holdings of 25 companies will include Microsoft, Nvidia and IBM, as well as quantum computing pure-plays Maryland-based IonQ and California-based Rigetti.

The market for thematic ETFs, which focus on selective investment categories ranging from sustainability to cryptocurrency, has doubled over the past five years to reach $562 billion globally. Lunate said its new range of thematic ETFs would “enable investors to tap into the structural megatrends driving tomorrow’s innovation and growth.”

The company, which is backed by Abu Dhabi’s ADQ and Chimera Capital – investment arms tied to Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed – has more than $50 billion under management and has been rapidly expanding its asset base and suite of investment products in recent months.

Last week it announced a $2 billion deal to acquire a minority stake in global hedge fund powerhouse Brevan Howard to anchor a new investment hub in the Gulf, which will be based in the Abu Dhabi Global Market.