Charles Schwab Investment Management (CSIM) reported this week that it plans to launch a mutual fund that will allow investors to gain exposure to the global real estate market. This October, CSIM will be launching its Schwab Fundamental Global Real Estate Index Fund (SFREX).

CSIM is the only asset management company that offers ETFs or mutual funds that track the Russell Fundamental Index Series.

The Schwab Fundamental Global Real Estate Index Fund will track the Russell Fundamental Global Select Real Estate Index – an index that tracks more than 200 real estate companies in 20 countries.

The index also measures the performance of real estate companies and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in developed and emerging markets.

According to Senior Vice President and Product Management John Sturiale: “This new addition to Schwab’s index mutual fund family marries the diversification and dividend potential of global real estate with the intelligence of the Fundamental Index methodology, which we believe is a powerful combination."

The firm reported that this fund will have an expense ratio and 0.49% and will require a minimum investment of $100. The fund is expected to be available for purchase on October 22.

This new fund will be a great opportunity for mutual fund investors seeking exposure to the global real estate market. Conservative investors should be aware that although this opportunity may have upside potential, it does carry a higher amount of risk.