This report looks specifically at the evolving trends of the equity asset class of sustainable UCITS, whose share is the highest (53%) in total sustainable UCITS funds. It highlights their role as investment vehicles in facilitating the green transition. The universe of sustainable equity UCITS funds is defined based on Morningstar’s classification of sustainable financial instruments1. This means funds must claim to have a sustainability objective, and/or use binding ESG criteria for their investment selection.
ESMA's call for Evidence on the Eligible Assets Directive
ESMA’s Call for Evidence on the UCITS Eligible Assets Directive is a welcome opportunity to take stock of the existing UCITS framework.
New rules for the AIFMD and UCITS Directive
New rules for the AIFMD and UCITS Directive were published on 26 March 2024 in the Official Journal of the European Union, making them law. These investment frameworks are European success stories and an integral part of the Capital Markets Union (CMU).
Size, age, investment strategy and geography are key determinants of UCITS cost
EFAMA’s latest research shows the average product cost of active and passive equity UCITS available to retail investors fell to 1.04% and 0.27% respectively in 2022.
Newly agreed AIFMD & UCITS rules will improve the EU funds market
As the EU Member States conclude technical discussions around the AIFMD & UCITS review, EFAMA would like to congratulate the European Commission and the co-legislators for keeping the key elements of both Directives intact during their review. These frameworks lie at the core of a well-functioning and resilient funds market and this agreement is a welcome step forward for the funds industry, investors and the Capital Markets Union project.
High-level response to ESMA consultation on notifications for cross-border marketing and management of AIFs and UCITS
EFAMA welcomes the European Securities and Market Authority’s continuous commitment to creating a single market for investment funds, confirmed by the draft regulatory standards currently under consideration. These RTS/ITS would further harmonise information that asset managers should provide to their national competent authorities before marketing or managing an investment fund on a cross-border basis, thus facilitating intra-EU product distribution.
EFAMA welcomes adoption by Council of its General Approach to AIFMD & UCITS Reviews
For immediate release, Brussels - EFAMA welcomes the adoption by Council of its general approach to the AIFMD and UCITS reviews today. We commend the swift progress made by the French Presidency in this regard and its thorough approach to the review.
EFAMA expresses strong support for the Draft report of MEP Isabel Benjumea on the Review of the AIFMD and UCITS Directive
Sustainable UCITS Bond Funds for a Better Future | Market Insights | Issue #9
EFAMA released today a new issue of its Market Insights series titled ‘Sustainable UCITS Bond Funds for a Better Future'. This report highlights the strong demand for UCITS bond funds that apply ESG strategies in their portfolio selection, confirming the growing interest of investors for ESG products. It analyses the investment characteristics of this type of funds and compares their performance and fees with those of traditional bond funds.
US mutual funds are not necessarily cheaper than UCITS | EFAMA Market Insights Issue #8
EFAMA released today issue number eight of its Market Insights series titled 'The Costs of UCITS and US Mutual Funds - We can only compare like with like'. This