Zurich launches global equities SMA
Zurich is now offering a Global Growth Opportunities separately managed account (SMA) on the HUB24 platform, which it said offered advisers an ‘even more concentrated’ version of its $44 million Concentrated Global Growth fund at only 22 stocks.
The SMA, which went live on the HUB24 platform on 2 September, allowed investors to invest in a high conviction growth strategy of global securities. These securities were managed by Zurich’s US-based investment partner American Century Investments.
The Concentrated Global Growth fund has 35 stocks but this SMA will only have up to 22.
The firm said offering an SMA version was advantageous to its investors as it gave them the opportunity to customise an investment portfolio with choice to exclude or include certain asset features, gave the transparency of direct investment and had the potential to manage individual taxation requirements.
Matthew Drennan, head of savings and investment at Zurich, said the launch reflected strong demand from clients for this type of product.
“The launch of Zurich Investments Global Growth Opportunities SMA reflects strong demand from advisers seeking access to this strategy in a format offering more control and transparency for investors.
“Zurich Investments continues to review and expand its range of strategies and channels, based on adviser and investor demand, and this new offering reflects that market focus.”
He said the option of using an SMA gave advisers greater flexibility in managing their clients’ investments.
“We believe the SMA structure may also suit advisers who are looking for easier ways to manage investment options for their clients. Using managed accounts delivers benefits in flexibility, tax-effectiveness, and a lower administration and compliance burden for the advice practice.”
The Zurich Investments Concentrated Global Growth fund has returned 20.5% over one year to 3 September, according to FE Analytics, versus returns of 4.6% by the ACS Equity-Global sector.
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Laura Dew
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