2 Best Infrastructure ETFs in Canada (July 2026)
The best infrastructure ETFs in Canada include ZGI.TO (~0.40% MER) and CIF.TO (~0.65%). These ETFs provide exposure to global infrastructure assets like utilities, pipelines, and transportation, offering stable income and potential inflation protection, but with sensitivity to interest rates and moderate growth compared to broad equity ETFs.
Infrastructure ETFs are designed for Canadian investors seeking stable income and exposure to essential assets like utilities, pipelines, transportation, and communications networks. ETFs like ZGI.TO and CIF.TO invest in companies that operate critical infrastructure, often generating predictable cash flows.
The key advantage of infrastructure ETFs is their combination of income and inflation protection. Many infrastructure assets have regulated or long-term contracts that can adjust with inflation. However, these ETFs are still sensitive to interest rates and economic conditions.
In this guide, we break down the best infrastructure ETFs in Canada, comparing diversification, yield, and risk so you can decide how they fit into your TFSA, RRSP, or income-focused portfolio.
At a Glance: Quick Comparison
Side-by-side snapshot of fees, yield, and returns. Data updates daily.
| ETF | MER | AUM | Yield | YTD | 1Y |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Top ZGI.TO BMO Global Infrastructure Index ETF | — | $520M | 2.26% | +16.78% | +19.35% |
CIF.TO iShares Global Infrastructure Common Class | — | $1.5B | 1.53% | +23.95% | +41.15% |
What Is an ETF?
An infrastructure ETF in Canada is an exchange-traded fund that invests in companies involved in essential physical assets such as utilities, pipelines, toll roads, airports, and telecommunications networks. These ETFs provide exposure to real assets that generate steady, long-term cash flows.
For example, ZGI.TO (~0.40% MER) offers global exposure to infrastructure companies across multiple sectors, while CIF.TO (~0.65% MER) focuses on income-generating infrastructure assets with a diversified global portfolio. XGI.TO is another option providing broad infrastructure exposure.
Infrastructure ETFs are commonly used in TFSAs, RRSPs, and income portfolios. Investors should consider interest rate sensitivity, sector concentration, and geographic diversification when selecting an ETF.
The 2 Best ETFs: Ranked & Reviewed
Detailed breakdown of each pick with live data.
BMO Global Infrastructure Index ETF
$60.63
+16.78% YTD
Returns
YTD
+16.78%
1Y
+19.35%
3Y
+16.22%
5Y
+11.56%
iShares Global Infrastructure Common Class
$72.46
+23.95% YTD
Returns
YTD
+23.95%
1Y
+41.15%
3Y
+29.51%
5Y
+21.66%
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exposure to essential, income-generating assets like utilities and pipelines
- Potential inflation hedge due to regulated or contract-based revenue
- Stable cash flows and attractive dividend yields
- Diversification across global infrastructure sectors
Cons
- Sensitive to rising interest rates, which can pressure valuations
- Sector concentration compared to broad-market ETFs
- Moderate growth potential compared to equity-focused ETFs
- Some ETFs have higher MERs due to specialized exposure
Compare These ETFs Head-to-Head
Drill into a side-by-side breakdown of performance, AUM, and yield.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best infrastructure ETF in Canada?
ZGI.TO is a strong infrastructure ETF for Canadian investors due to its diversified global exposure and relatively low MER. CIF.TO is another popular option focused on income-generating infrastructure assets.
Are infrastructure ETFs good for income?
Yes, infrastructure ETFs are often used for income because they invest in assets with stable and predictable cash flows, such as utilities and pipelines, which typically pay consistent dividends.
Are infrastructure ETFs sensitive to interest rates?
Yes, infrastructure ETFs are sensitive to interest rates because many of their underlying assets are valued based on future cash flows. Rising interest rates can reduce valuations and make their yields less attractive compared to bonds.