Why modern computing depends on faster, higher-capacity data access
Artificial intelligence, cloud computing and advanced digital workloads are placing new demands on technology infrastructure. As data volumes grow, computing systems need more than processing power. They need to store, move, and access information at speed .
This is where memory and data storage come in.
Processors and graphics chips may receive much of the attention, but their performance depends on fast access to data. From high-bandwidth memory and DRAM to NAND flash, solid-state drives and memory controllers, the memory layer is becoming increasingly important to how modern computing systems perform.
To learn more about how memory fits into the AI infrastructure chain, and for details on the Memory ETF, watch webinar replay.
Artificial intelligence, cloud computing and advanced digital workloads are placing new demands on technology infrastructure. As data volumes grow, computing systems need more than processing power. They need to store, move, and access information at speed.
AI needs more than processing power
Processors and graphics chips may power AI calculations, but they depend on fast access to data. Memory helps keep information close to the processor, allowing AI systems to work faster and more efficiently as workloads become larger and more complex.
Memory is becoming a bottleneck
As AI models grow, they need more memory capacity and faster data movement. If memory cannot keep up, the wider system becomes less efficient. This is why technologies such as high-bandwidth memory are becoming increasingly important to AI infrastructure.
Memory is a distinct part of the technology stack
The semiconductor market is broad, but memory and storage play a specific role: helping computers store, move and access data. This includes high-bandwidth memory, DRAM, NAND flash, solid-state drives, memory controllers and data storage systems.
ETFs are for professional investors only. When you invest in ETFs, your capital is at risk.
Random-access memory
Short-term memory used to quickly store and access data while tasks are running.
Dynamic random-access memory
A widely used type of RAM found in computers, servers and data centres.
High Bandwidth Memory
Advanced memory designed to move large amounts of data quickly to processors.
NOT AND
Flash memory used for longer-term storage that keeps data without power.
The AI buildout is creating opportunities for businesses and individuals. But behind the rapid growth, a hardware bottleneck is emerging.
AI models require vast amounts of memory and data storage to train, run and scale effectively. As demand grows, memory hardware supply is becoming increasingly constrained, making it harder for AI infrastructure to keep pace.
Source: Precedence Research, 2026. For illustrative purposes only. Chart displays forecasted data.
Defiance Memory ETF
Explore our expert-written monthly fund reports, periodic reviews, and key insights.
Check out our upcoming webinars and events, and watch content on-demand.
Select Your Country
Select Your Investor Type
Choose a brokerage
Choose a product
You are now leaving HANetf's website and accessing a third-party website. HANetf may provide access to information, products, or services offered on websites that are owned or operated by other companies ("third-party websites"). We provide this access through the use of hyperlinks that automatically move you from a HANetf website to the third-party site.
While we do our best to provide you with helpful, trustworthy resources, HANetf cannot endorse, approve, or guarantee information, products, services, or recommendations provided at a third-party website. Since we may not always know when information on a linked site changes, HANetf is not responsible for the content or accuracy of any third-party website. HANetf shall not be responsible for any loss or damage of any sort resulting from the use of a link on its websites nor will it be liable for any failure of products or services advertised or provided on these linked sites.
HANetf offers you links on an "as is" basis. When you visit a third-party website by using a link on a HANetf site, you will no longer be protected by the HANetf privacy policy or security practices. The data collection, use, and protection practices of the linked site may differ from the practices of HANetf sites. You should familiarize yourself with the privacy policy and security practices of the linked website. Those are the policies and practices that will apply to your use of the linked website, not the HANetf policies and practices.
Here are some tips to help you tell if you have left a HANetf website:
Important Notice: HANetf is a provider of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) and Exchange Traded Commodities (ETCs). We do not sell investment products directly to individual investors. Our funds are available through regulated investment platforms and brokers. Our only official website is www.hanetf.com. Any other domain is not affiliated with or authorised by HANetf in any way. If you suspect fraudulent activity, please contact your local financial regulator and/or the police and report the website or individual involved.