Focused on maximizing dividend income and franking credits, the strategy has proven popular with investors, managing over $685 million as of October 2024.
According to Ausbil, the fund aims to generate a consistent income stream that increases with inflation over time, with a portfolio of approximately 45 securities primarily selected from constituents of the S&P/ASX 200 Index.
“We are delighted to broaden the accessibility of the Ausbil Active Dividend Income Fund with the upcoming launch of the ETF,” said Mark Knight, Managing Director of Ausbil.
“By offering an ETF, we aim to meet the growing demand from investors and self-managed retirement funds who are looking for convenient and efficient access to our income-focused investment solutions. »
Michael Price, portfolio manager of the strategy, described a “substantial opportunity” in the Australian listed market for active dividend income managers.
“While there are several passive rules-based options, we believe Ausbil’s active management approach offers a distinct competitive advantage,” he said.
“Through rigorous stock selection and dynamic portfolio positioning, we strive to provide investors with a dividend-focused and more tax-efficient investment experience.”
Since its inception in July 2018, the fund has returned 8.26 per cent compared to the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Accumulation Index return of 7.96 per cent.
Earlier this year, Ausbil announced it would restructure its Australian equities team following the retirement of its co-head of Australian equities, John Grace, who is due to leave the role in December after almost 25 years at the manager of funds.
However, effective July 1, the firm has made a number of changes, including appointing Nicholas Condoleon as Deputy Head of Equities, Australian Longs Only, as well as Portfolio Manager of Ausbil Active Sustainable Equity Fund. Mans Carlsson, the company’s head of ESG, has been appointed co-manager.
Separately, at the time, Gian Pandit was appointed Deputy Head of Equities, Australian Delta Adjusted, and portfolio manager on the 130/30 Focus and Long Short Focus funds, supported by Chris Smith.
Additionally, David Lloyd and Arden Jennings have been named co-heads of emerging companies. Jennings also co-manages the small and micro cap strategies with Andrew Peros and Tom Cutler, while Beyhan Irmako has been named small and micro cap equity analyst.
Chris Smith has been named head of equity research as supervisor, with Stella McMullen as deputy for daily equity research and earnings models.
Ausbil also welcomed Syvanna Croyden earlier this month as head of investment research and advisory, joining from State Street Global Advisors.
