Jasmine Birtles
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The Best Aggressive Growth ETFs to Buy in 2025
Ruby Layram
17th Jul 2025
If you’re the type who likes your investments with a bit of risk and growth potential, this one’s for you. While slow and steady can win the race, sometimes it’s fun (and profitable!) to go full throttle. That’s where aggressive growth ETFs come in. They’re fast, fiery, and full of potential… if you can stomach a bit of risk along the way.
In this article, we’re breaking down what aggressive growth really means, who these investments are best for, and which aggressive growth ETFs you might want to consider in 2025.
What on Earth Is an Aggressive Growth ETF?
An aggressive growth ETF is like the Formula 1 car of the investment world. It’s designed to go fast, focusing on companies and industries that are expected to grow rapidly over the next few years. We’re talking disruptive tech, AI, semiconductors, biotech, and anything else at the cutting edge.
But, as with all things speedy, they come with a risk warning. When markets drop, these funds can fall harder than bowling pins. So, they’re best suited for investors who are in it for the long haul and don’t panic when things get a little bumpy.
Also read: The Best AI ETFs to Buy in 2025
Who Are They Best For?
Aggressive growth ETFs aren’t ideal if you’re saving up for something short-term like a new car or a house deposit. But if you’re investing for five years or more, have a decent risk appetite, and are happy to see a bit of red now and then, these ETFs could be just the ticket.
They’re particularly good for younger investors, ISA holders who want to turbocharge their returns, and anyone building a diversified portfolio with room for a bit of excitement.
The Best Aggressive Growth ETFs in 2025
So, what’s hot right now? After a bit of digging and some live research, here are the standout ETFs that growth investors are loving in 2025:
1. Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF (AIQ)
This fund is laser-focused on AI companies making waves in software, services, and hardware. It’s had a return of 22.4% this year thanks to names like Oracle, Broadcom and Palantir. If you believe in the AI boom (and who doesn’t at this point?), this one could be worth a look.
2. ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK)
Ah yes, Cathie Wood’s famous (and sometimes infamous) flagship fund. ARKK invests in high-conviction, disruptive companies like biotech, blockchain, and robotics. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but has seen a return of 42.4% this year, which is pretty impressive!
3. iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX)
Chips are the lifeblood of AI, electric vehicles and tech in general. SOXX gives you solid exposure to top semiconductor firms. It’s not cheap and it can be volatile, but if you’re bullish on tech infrastructure, this one’s a solid shout.
It’s currently down around -6%, which could be a good opportunity to buy the dip. But be careful here, there is no guarantee that it will go back up!
4. Vanguard Growth ETF (VUG)
If you want aggressive growth but without quite so much drama, VUG is a great option. It focuses on mega-cap U.S. growth stocks like Apple, Nvidia and Amazon. It’s got a low fee (just 0.04%) and solid long-term performance.
The ETF has returned around 17% this year and has a solid track record of returns.
5. Invesco QQQ ETF (QQQ)
QQQ tracks the Nasdaq-100 and gives you a heavy dose of tech stocks. It’s historically smashed the S&P 500 in terms of performance, although it’s more volatile. Perfect if you’re a tech bull with a long-term horizon.
How to Keep an Eye on Your ETFs
Investing in aggressive growth ETFs comes with a bit of admin! You will need to keep an eye on the performance of your portfolio as well as wider market news to prepare for any volatility.
Most ETF providers (like Vanguard or iShares) have dashboards that show live performance, asset breakdowns and past returns. You can also use free tools like Google Finance, Trustnet or the investment platforms where you bought your ETF.
Make a habit of checking in every few months, not every day (unless you fancy giving yourself a headache). Remember, these are long-term plays. The market will wobble, but time in the market usually beats timing the market.
Final Thoughts
Aggressive growth ETFs aren’t for everyone. But if you’ve got the risk tolerance and the patience, they can be a brilliant addition to your portfolio. Whether you’re after exposure to AI, cutting-edge tech, or the next big thing in biotech, 2025’s lineup of ETFs is packed with potential.
Just make sure you do your homework, diversify your portfolio, and only invest what you’re prepared to leave untouched for a good few years. And, as always, don’t invest anything you can’t afford to lose.
Tempted to add some aggressive growth to your portfolio? Let us know what you’re investing in, or ask us a question, over on our socials.
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Disclaimer: MoneyMagpie is not a licensed financial advisor and therefore information found here including opinions, commentary, suggestions or strategies are for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only. This should not be considered as financial advice.
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