The smart network
The mobile internet boom witnessed over the last decade created the infrastructure that has enabled a vast ecosystem of smart software companies to thrive. A range of new technologies are making networks, systems, processes and products of all kinds increasingly responsive and intelligent. Clearly, there are potential gains to be made here, as ‘smart’ entities have the potential to radically enhance efficiency and productivity.
However, these productivity gains often come with a human cost, as industries are reshaped when machines can do the job of human workers for a fraction of the price. The future of work has therefore become a topic of much discussion across governments and the private sector alike, and may influence companies in the smart technology space through regulation to address these issues.
Why being smart about smart technology matters
We see technological developments as a mainstay of the future, with new innovations affecting every industry on the planet. This makes it paramount for us to incorporate our analysis of these new technologies into everything we do, to ensure that we are getting the fullest picture of our investments and their prospects. Our smart revolution theme helps us to keep our focus where it matters most, and to invest accordingly.
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Meet the team
We have a research group for each theme, made up of analysts, portfolio managers and other members of the investment team, that collaborate on new thematic ideas and analysis. Here are the co-leaders in the smart revolution theme group.
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Sophia Whitbread
Portfolio manager, emerging and Asian equities
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Yuko Takano
Portfolio manager, global equities
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Ed Geall
Thematic analyst
Of course, our themes don’t exist in a vacuum
Your capital may be at risk. The value of investments and the income from them can fall as well as rise and investors may not get back the original amount invested.