Can Magellan’s Active ETF Navigate Currency and Market Risks Successfully?

Magellan Investment Partners has launched the Magellan Global Opportunities Fund, an actively managed ETF targeting long-term outperformance of the MSCI World Index with a strong ESG focus and reduced management fees.

  • New active ETF listed under ticker OPPT on Securities Exchange
  • Targets 20-40 global equities with high conviction and ESG integration
  • Management fee halved to 0.75% per annum, no performance fees
  • Semi-annual distributions with optional reinvestment plan
  • Fund operates under Securities Exchange Rules with liquidity support
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Magellan's Active ETF Launch

Magellan Investment Partners has introduced the Magellan Global Opportunities Fund, an actively managed exchange-traded fund (ETF) designed to deliver long-term capital growth by investing in a concentrated portfolio of global equities. The Fund, trading under the ticker OPPT, aims to outperform the MSCI World Net Total Return Index (AUD) over a minimum three-year horizon.

The Fund typically holds between 20 and 40 stocks, focusing on companies with strong economic moats, sustainable profit growth potential, and robust environmental, social, and governance (ESG) credentials. Magellan’s investment approach combines rigorous fundamental research with macroeconomic insights, reflecting a commitment to quality and responsible investing.

Fee Structure and Investor Access

Investors can access the Fund either by purchasing units on the Securities Exchange or by applying directly through Magellan. The Fund supports liquidity provision by acting as a buyer and seller of units on the exchange, with an indicative net asset value (iNAV) published throughout trading days to assist investors in pricing transparency.

Investment Strategy and ESG Integration

Magellan’s strategy centers on identifying high-quality companies trading below intrinsic value, leveraging a proprietary ESG scoring framework that evaluates environmental impact, social responsibility, and governance practices. The Fund excludes investments in tobacco, controversial weapons, and nuclear weapons beyond defined revenue thresholds, underscoring its ethical investment stance.

The Fund’s asset allocation is predominantly global equities (95-100%) with a small cash buffer (0-5%), and it does not hedge foreign currency exposure, exposing investors to currency risk alongside equity market risk. The recommended investment timeframe is seven years, reflecting the Fund’s long-term growth orientation.

Risks and Operational Details

As with all active equity funds, the Magellan Global Opportunities Fund carries market, concentration, currency, liquidity, and operational risks. The Fund operates under the Securities Exchange Rules rather than the full ASX Listing Rules, which affects disclosure and governance requirements. Investors should note that unit prices on the exchange may diverge from the Fund’s net asset value, and liquidity may vary.

Distributions are generally paid semi-annually, with an option for investors to reinvest dividends through a distribution reinvestment plan (DRP). The Fund is structured as an Attribution Managed Investment Trust (AMIT), with tax implications detailed in the Product Disclosure Statement.

Looking Ahead

Magellan’s launch of this active ETF with a strong ESG framework and reduced fees reflects evolving investor demand for responsible, cost-effective global equity exposure. Market participants will be watching closely to see how the Fund performs relative to its benchmark and peers, and how it navigates the complexities of global markets and currency fluctuations.

Bottom Line?

Magellan’s new active ETF blends ESG rigor with fee competitiveness, setting the stage for a compelling global equity proposition amid evolving investor priorities.

Questions in the middle?

  • How will the Fund’s concentrated portfolio perform during periods of global market volatility?
  • What impact will the reduced management fee have on attracting new investors and fund flows?
  • How effectively will Magellan’s ESG integration influence stock selection and risk management over time?