FRWD targets companies driving technological transformation across industries, focusing on firms that either develop breakthrough technologies or use them to fundamentally reshape their business models. This isn't another generic tech fund — it's hunting for the next wave of disruption beyond the usual suspects.
How It Works
The fund employs Nomura's proprietary screening to identify transformational tech leaders across sectors, not just traditional technology companies. It weights holdings based on each company's transformational score, which measures both technological innovation and business model disruption. The portfolio rebalances quarterly to capture emerging leaders while trimming positions in companies whose transformational edge has dulled.
Key Features
- Cross-sector tech exposure including non-tech companies using AI, automation, or digital transformation to dominate
- Zero expense ratio makes it the cheapest way to access actively-researched transformational tech themes
- Proprietary Nomura scoring system identifies disruption potential before it shows up in traditional growth metrics
Risks
- Brand new fund with no track record — you're betting on Nomura's stock-picking ability sight unseen
- Transformational tech bets can crater 50-70% when the story breaks — see any SPAC or unprofitable SaaS stock
- Thematic investing tends to peak right when retail discovers it — could be launching at the worst possible time
Who Should Own This
Built for growth investors who want tech disruption exposure but are tired of owning the same mega-cap names in every fund. The zero expense ratio makes it attractive for anyone building a satellite position around transformational themes. Best suited for those with 5+ year horizons who can stomach significant volatility while these transformation stories play out.