Focusing on maximising dividend income and franking credits, the strategy has proven popular among investors, managing over $685 million as at October 2024.
According to Ausbil, the fund aims to deliver a consistent income stream that grows with inflation over time, with a portfolio of around 45 holdings primarily selected from the S&P/ASX 200 Index constituents.
“We are excited to broaden the accessibility of the Ausbil Active Dividend Income Fund through the upcoming ETF launch,” Ausbil chief executive Mark Knight said.
“By offering an ETF, we aim to cater to the growing demand from investors and self-managed superannuation funds seeking 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 available, we believe Ausbil’s active management approach provides a distinct competitive advantage,” he said.
“Through rigorous security selection and dynamic portfolio positioning, we strive to offer investors a more rewarding tax effective dividend-focused investment experience.”
Since its inception in July 2018, the fund has delivered 8.26 per cent against the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Accumulation Index return of 7.96 per cent.
Earlier this year, Ausbil said it will restructure its Australian equities team following the retirement of its co-head of Australian equities, John Grace, who is due to step down in December after almost 25 years at the fund manager.
However, effective 1 July, the firm made a number of changes, including appointing Nicholas Condoleon as deputy head of equities, Australian long only, as well as to the post of portfolio manager on the Ausbil Active Sustainable Equity Fund. Mans Carlsson, head of ESG at the firm, was appointed as co-manager.
Moreover, at the time, Gian Pandit was appointed as deputy head of equities, Australian delta adjusted, and as portfolio manager on the 130/30 Focus and Long Short Focus Fund, supported by Chris Smith.
Additionally, David Lloyd and Arden Jennings were named co-heads of emerging companies. Jennings also jointly manages the small and micro-cap strategies with Andrew Peros and Tom Cutler, while Beyhan Irmako was appointed equity analyst on small and micro-caps.
Chris Smith was appointed as head of equities research in an oversight capacity with Stella McMullen as his deputy on the day-to-day stock research and earnings models.
Ausbil also welcomed Syvanna Croyden earlier this month as manager for investment research and consulting, joining from State Street Global Advisors.
