Laser Focus World is an industry bedrock—first published in 1965 and still going strong. We publish original articles about cutting-edge advances in lasers, optics, photonics, sensors, and quantum technologies, as well as test and measurement, and the shift currently underway to usher in the photonic integrated circuits, optical interconnects, and copackaged electronics and photonics to deliver the speed and efficiency essential for data centers of the future.

Our 80,000 qualified print subscribers—and 130,000 12-month engaged online audience—trust us to dive in and provide original journalism you won’t find elsewhere covering key emerging areas such as laser-driven inertial confinement fusion, lasers in space, integrated photonics, chipscale lasers, LiDAR, metasurfaces, high-energy laser weaponry, photonic crystals, and quantum computing/sensors/communications. We cover the innovations driving these markets.

Laser Focus World is part of Endeavor Business Media, a division of EndeavorB2B.

Laser Focus World Membership

Never miss any articles, videos, podcasts, or webinars by signing up for membership access to Laser Focus World online. You can manage your preferences all in one place—and provide our editorial team with your valued feedback.

Magazine Subscription

Can you subscribe to receive our print issue for free? Yes, you sure can!

Newsletter Subscription

Laser Focus World newsletter subscription is free to qualified professionals:

The Daily Beam

Showcases the newest content from Laser Focus World, including photonics- and optics-based applications, components, research, and trends. (Daily)

Product Watch

The latest in products within the photonics industry. (9x per year)

Bio & Life Sciences Product Watch

The latest in products within the biophotonics industry. (4x per year)

Laser Processing Product Watch

The latest in products within the laser processing industry. (3x per year)

Get Published!

If you’d like to write an article for us, reach out with a short pitch to Sally Cole Johnson: [email protected]. We love to hear from you.

Photonics Hot List

Laser Focus World produces a video newscast that gives a peek into what’s happening in the world of photonics.

Following the Photons: A Photonics Podcast

Following the Photons: A Photonics Podcast dives deep into the fascinating world of photonics. Our weekly episodes feature interviews and discussions with industry and research experts, providing valuable perspectives on the issues, technologies, and trends shaping the photonics community.

Editorial Advisory Board

  • Professor Andrea M. Armani, University of Southern California
  • Ruti Ben-Shlomi, Ph.D., LightSolver
  • James Butler, Ph.D., Hamamatsu
  • Natalie Fardian-Melamed, Ph.D., Columbia University
  • Justin Sigley, Ph.D., AmeriCOM
  • Professor Birgit Stiller, Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, and Leibniz University of Hannover
  • Professor Stephen Sweeney, University of Glasgow
  • Mohan Wang, Ph.D., University of Oxford
  • Professor Xuchen Wang, Harbin Engineering University
  • Professor Stefan Witte, Delft University of Technology

How to profit from AI innovation in 2025

How to profit from AI innovation and investment opportunities in 2025

Let’s talk about opportunity. Right now — at this very moment — we are witnessing one of the biggest technological revolutions of our lifetime. Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer the future. It’s happening NOW. It’s shaping industries, transforming economies and redefining what’s possible.

And here’s the real question: Are you going to sit back and watch, or are you going to get in the game?

Because here’s what I know for sure: Understanding where the world is headed is the key to building lasting wealth. And AI? It’s not just a trend — it’s a megatrend.

What are megatrends (and why should you care)?

Megatrends aren’t fads. They aren’t quick-hit stock plays. They are unstoppable, global shifts that reshape how we live, work and invest.

They are big, bold, long-term forces driving change in every corner of the economy. The companies that ride these megatrends don’t just survive — they THRIVE. And the investors who recognize them early? They build generational wealth.

Why this matters to YOU:

  • Megatrends are where real wealth is built. They’re not about chasing what’s hot today — they’re about positioning yourself for success tomorrow.
  • They create new industries and disrupt old ones. Look at AI, clean energy and digital finance — we’re talking about entire sectors being reinvented.
  • They don’t just change markets, they change lives. AI is revolutionizing healthcare, security, energy and the way we manage money.

So now, let’s get into it. Let’s talk about the biggest AI-driven megatrends of 2025 — and how YOU can invest in them.

The green energy revolution: AI-powered sustainability

What’s happening: The world is moving toward net-zero emissions, smart energy grids and a future where clean energy rules. AI is at the center of this shift, helping optimize renewable energy, predict power demand and improve battery efficiency.

Top ETFs and mutual funds:

  • VanEck Low Carbon Energy ETF: Investing in AI-driven clean energy solutions.
  • Calvert Global Energy Solutions Fund: Targeting companies leveraging AI to drive energy efficiency.
  • Sprott Energy Transition Materials ETF: Focused on companies supplying the critical materials needed for AI-enhanced clean energy and electrification.

Why invest? The clean energy industry is projected to be worth $1.3 trillion by 2030. AI is making renewable energy smarter, faster and more profitable.

Cybersecurity and the digital defense boom

What’s happening: We live in a digital world, and AI is leading the charge in keeping that world safe. AI is detecting cyber threats in real-time, preventing attacks before they happen, and protecting financial transactions, businesses and governments.

Top ETFs and mutual funds:

  • First Trust NASDAQ Cybersecurity ETF: Investing in AI-driven cybersecurity companies.
  • VanEck Digital Transformation ETF: Focusing on companies enhancing blockchain security and AI-driven risk management.
  • Trillium ESG Global Equity Fund: Including ethical AI and data protection innovations.

Why invest? Cybersecurity spending is projected to hit $500 billion by 2027. AI-powered security isn’t an option anymore — it’s a necessity.

AI in health care: the next medical revolution

What’s happening: Imagine a world where diseases are detected before symptoms even show. Where doctors have AI-driven insights to create personalized treatments. Where robotic-assisted surgeries improve patient outcomes.

This isn’t science fiction. This is happening RIGHT NOW.

Top ETFs and mutual funds:

  • iShares U.S. Healthcare ETF: Covering leading AI-driven biotech and healthcare firms.
  • VanEck Pharmaceutical ETF: Investing in AI-enhanced drug research.
  • Calvert Health Care Fund: Focused on sustainable and ethical healthcare innovation.

Why invest? AI-powered healthcare is expected to be a $200 billion industry by 2030. The next breakthrough in medicine is happening now — and the right investments will be at the heart of it.

AI and the rise of smart finance

What’s happening: AI is reshaping banking, trading and wealth management. It’s making finance faster, smarter and more secure with algorithmic trading, robo-advisors and real-time fraud detection.

Top ETFs and mutual funds:

  • WisdomTree Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Fund: Investing in AI-driven financial automation.
  • Fidelity Select Financial Services Fund: Covering companies leading AI-powered banking and payments.
  • iShares Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF: Focusing on fintech companies integrating AI innovation.

Why invest? AI in finance is reducing risk, cutting costs and improving efficiency. This isn’t the future of money — it’s the present.

Final thoughts: The future belongs to those who see it first

Here’s what I know for sure: AI is the biggest technological shift of our generation.

And you have a choice. You can sit on the sidelines and watch — or you can be a part of it.

Key takeaways:

  • AI is driving the biggest global megatrends — investing now positions for long-term success.
  • ETFs and mutual funds offer diversified exposure to AI-powered industries.
  • The world is changing. The question is: Will you be ahead of it?

Next steps: Explore the top AI-focused ETFs and mutual funds outlined in this article and start investing in the future — TODAY.

Read more: Stocks poised to grow from Stargate’s $500 billion AI investment

Stock Quote API & Stock News API supplied by www.cloudquote.io
Quotes delayed at least 20 minutes.
By accessing this page, you agree to the following
Privacy Policy and Terms Of Service.