The two new ETFs mark an expansion of BlackRock’s Megatrends suite.

BlackRock has launched the iShares Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF (IVEG) and the iShares Blockchain and Tech ETF (IBLC) as a part of its Megatrends range of products.

“The expansion of our megatrends line-up today reflects the power of the millennial and rise of the self-directed investor, whose buying habits have reshaped mainstream consumer behaviors, and in turn, the companies in which they invest,” said Rachel Aguirre, Head of U.S. iShares Product at BlackRock. “We believe the moment is now to embrace these forward-looking investment themes before the market recognizes their full potential.” (iShares)

Shares Blockchain and Tech ETF (IBLC)

IBLC seeks exposure to global companies at the forefront of the development, innovation, and utilization of blockchain and crypto technologies. The ETF does not invest directly in cryptocurrencies.

The ETF tracks the NYSE® FactSet® Global Blockchain Technologies Index.

It charges an expense ratio of 0.47%.

iShares Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF (IVEG)

IVEG provides access to companies shaping the future of food by investing in agricultural technologies and innovative food products and services.

The ETF tracks the Morningstar Global Food Innovation Index.

It charges an expense ratio of 0.47%.

BlackRock’s insights on permanent changes

Separately, BlackRock released a paper on “permanent changes” – structural, long-term changes that will drive the next phase of global growth, and which create underestimated investment opportunities.

“Today, there is more potential for rapid change than at any other point in history,” said Armando Senra, Head of Americas ETF and Index Investing at BlackRock. “The emergence of transformative growth trends, born of permanent changes in the way we live and work, have uncovered new investment opportunities for investors.”

According to BlackRock, three areas are experiencing significant permanent changes.

• New Consumer: New consumers’ unique preferences for decentralized digital ecosystems and greener goods.
• Industrial Renaissance: Global inflation and supply chain disruption make industrial investments in automation, infrastructure, and the future of transportation immediately critical.
• Medical Breakthroughs: The progress made in genomics, immunology and precision medicine technologies is at an inflection point, leading to an acceleration of medical breakthroughs and treatments.

Related Story: BlackRock Launches Four New Sector ESG ETFs