The Internet of Things is a concept that’s expanding rapidly, evolving into a whole range of devices like washers and thermometers that “talk” to one another over the Internet. But investors should be wary of emerging data regulations before they invest.
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of physical devices capable of connecting to the Internet. Many of us use this network every day, from streaming music through wireless headphones to adjusting the thermostat of our homes with a mobile device. Wearable technology, automated vehicles and smart devices all belong to the Internet of Things.
Popular Internet of Things devices include:
Internet of Things stocks are from companies that design or produce Internet-connected hardware and software. You can invest in the IoT by purchasing individual stocks or exchange-traded funds.
The Internet of Things is considered a growth industry with numerous consumer, commercial and industrial applications. Automation is the name of the game for many subsectors of the tech industry as consumer demand for autonomous tech rises.
The global market for Internet-connected end-user solutions hit $100 billion in market revenue in 2017, according to Statista. And it’s forecast that by 2025, the industry will be worth $1.6 trillion. B2B market research suggests a compound annual growth rate of 26.9% for the IoT sector from 2017 to 2022.
Smart technology is growing rapidly, and IoT stocks give investors the chance to back a fast-paced sector with promising growth projections.
Economic downturn can impact the viability of businesses that produce or sell consumer goods. After all, if consumer spending declines, so do profits. A large chunk of the IoT industry comprises electronics that are new enough for consumers to consider luxurious novelties — not necessities. This sector’s growth could be affected by even a mild recession.
Another major concern for investors is data privacy and security. This technology is evolving, and emerging data-protection legislation may damper the industry’s progress. As we continue to explore the role of this technology in our everyday lives, tightening data regulations and more robust privacy protections may force tech companies to rethink how Internet-connected devices access consumer data.
Tech companies are far from immune to government jurisdiction. Emerging regulations could force companies back to the drawing board to amend their software, delaying product launches and affecting existing product lines.
To purchase Internet of Things stocks, prepare to invest in semiconductors, sensors, processors, chips, Bluetooth technology and smart devices.
For those seeking a less targeted and more diverse approach to investing in the Internet of Things, ETFs may be worth considering. There are a number of ETFs that track some of the major players on the IoT scene. These ETFs include:
There is only one ETF that specifically tracks IoT stocks: the Global X Internet of Things Thematic ETF (NasdaqGS: SNSR). This fund has more than $231 million in total assets and tracks many big names in the IoT sector, including Garmin, Qualcomm and Vivint Smart Home.
Internet-connected technology is growing at an impressive rate, with global market projections on track to crack USD $1 trillion by 2024. But the industry relies on consumer spending, and the technology isn’t yet a necessity for consumers — yet.
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