Fund Description

The fund was incepted in August 1995. ING Investments is the fund's adviser and Nicholas-Applegate Capital Management is the fund's sub-adviser. The fund seeks maximum long-term capital appreciation. The fund invests at least 80% of its assets in securities of small companies. At least 65% of the fund's assets are normally invested in companies located outside the U.S. The fund may invest up to 35% of its total assets in U.S. issuers. The fund invests primarily in smaller-capitalized companies ('small cap stocks') located worldwide. The fund normally invests at least 75% of its total assets in common and preferred stock, warrants and convertible securities. The fund may invest in companies located in countries with emerging securities markets when the sub-adviser believes they present attractive investment opportunities. Dividends and capital gains, if any, are distributed annually.