Strive Natural Resources and Security ETF (FTWO) seeks to provide exposure to companies involved in natural resources extraction, energy production, and national security infrastructure. This thematic ETF targets firms across oil & gas, mining, defense contractors, and critical materials supply chains that support American energy independence and security interests.

How It Works

FTWO employs an actively managed approach, selecting companies based on their alignment with natural resources development and national security objectives rather than traditional market-cap weighting. The fund focuses on U.S.-listed companies that contribute to domestic energy production, critical mineral extraction, defense manufacturing, and supply chain security. Portfolio construction emphasizes strategic importance over pure financial metrics, with quarterly rebalancing to maintain thematic focus and capitalize on geopolitical developments affecting resource security.

Key Features

  • Launched January 2024 as one of the first ETFs combining natural resources with national security themes
  • Zero expense ratio during initial period, making it cost-competitive against traditional energy and materials ETFs
  • Active management allows tactical positioning based on geopolitical events affecting resource security and defense spending

Risks

  • This ETF can lose value significantly during commodity price crashes, as natural resources stocks often decline 40-60% in severe downturns like 2014-2016 oil collapse
  • Geopolitical tensions that initially boost defense stocks may reverse quickly, causing rapid sector rotation away from security-focused holdings
  • Concentrated exposure to cyclical sectors means higher volatility than broad market ETFs, with potential for extended periods of underperformance during economic slowdowns

Who Should Own This

Best suited as a satellite holding (5-15% allocation) for investors with high risk tolerance and 3+ year time horizons seeking thematic exposure to resource security trends. Appeals to those believing in long-term commodity cycles and increased defense spending. Requires patience for sector rotation cycles and comfort with above-average volatility.