Core foundation, sharp tools: 2026 semiconductor equipment ETF E Fund investment strategy
Author: Lychee
Abstract: The intensive IPO window for AI chips and the full-scale ramp-up of domestic computing power chips are pushing "domestic substitution" from logical deduction to the deep waters of order fulfillment. Standing at the forefront of the semiconductor cycle's full-scale upturn in 2026, the E Fund Semiconductor Equipment ETF (159558) has become a strategic tool for capital to tap into the "long slope and thick snow" of hard technology, thanks to its deep anchoring of the most upstream and highest-barrier segments of the industrial chain.
I. Core Logic: Deep Breakthroughs in Domestic Substitution and Resonance with AI Expansion
Semiconductor equipment, as the "mother machine" of the semiconductor industry, is experiencing an unprecedented resonance of prosperity.
The first year of domestic computing power chip ramp-up: 2026 is seen as a big year for the ramp-up of domestic GPUs and AI accelerator chips. With the acceleration of downstream computing power center infrastructure, wafer fab expansion is shifting from "planning" to "implementation," directly driving demand for local high-end equipment. The E Fund Semiconductor Equipment ETF (159558) closely tracks the CSI Semiconductor Materials & Equipment Index, with semiconductor equipment accounting for over 60% of its constituents, precisely capturing the order explosion dividends of leading companies such as NAURA and AMEC.
AIAgent-driven advanced process upgrades: The practical application of Agents has fueled demand for high-performance memory (HBM) and advanced process chips. The transformation of 3DDRAM architecture and the penetration of advanced packaging technologies require etching and thin-film deposition processes with higher aspect ratios. By covering forward-looking technology companies such as Piotech and ACM Research, the E Fund Semiconductor Equipment ETF (159558) has secured a favorable position in the "overtaking on curves" of advanced processes.
II. Product Scan: Capital Inflows Against the Trend, Both Scale and Shares Hit New Highs
Amid market volatility, the E Fund Semiconductor Equipment ETF (159558) has demonstrated a strong "capital magnet" effect.
Both scale and shares rise: By early February 2026, the ETF's scale had surged to approximately 4.7 billion yuan, with the latest shares exceeding 2.2 billion, both setting new highs since its inception. It has attracted over 240 million yuan in the past five trading days, showing unanimous recognition from major capital for the equipment sector's "high elasticity and strong recovery."
Low-cost advantage: The E Fund Semiconductor Equipment ETF (159558) maintains a highly competitive fee structure (management fee 0.15% + custody fee 0.05%). Compared to similar products, this low-friction cost setting is more suitable for long-term deployment in the domestic substitution wave.
III. Expert Insights: A Practical Framework for Allocating to Semiconductor Equipment ETFs in 2026
As a fund analysis expert, given the uniqueness of the equipment sector, the following allocation framework is recommended for investors:
"Shovel" strategy outperforms "gold mining" strategy: Compared to direct investment in individual AI chip design companies, the E Fund Semiconductor Equipment ETF (159558) invests in "shovel sellers." Regardless of which downstream chip giant wins, the rigid incremental demand for etching machines, photoresists, and polishing materials for wafer fab expansion offers higher certainty.
Dollar-cost averaging to smooth cyclical volatility: The equipment segment is affected by the pace of capital expenditures, with volatility generally higher than the broader market. Investors are advised to use the E Fund Semiconductor Equipment ETF (159558) for phased position building, focusing on the expansion pace of "two memory" fabs (DRAM/NAND) and market feedback on AI chip IPOs.
Risk Disclosure:
This fund is an equity index fund with a high risk level. The semiconductor equipment industry is significantly impacted by geopolitical trade frictions, global supply chain volatility, and potential shortfalls in downstream capital expenditures. The historical performance of the E Fund Semiconductor Equipment ETF (159558) does not guarantee future returns. Investors are advised to make independent decisions based on their risk preferences after reviewing the "Fund Contract" and "Prospectus." The fund does not promise capital preservation or minimum returns.
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