Introduction

Managed funds and Exchanged Traded Funds (ETFs) are two investment products that provide different ways for investment managers to invest in a diverse range of assets. Both products have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for an investment manager will depend on their investment goals and the characteristics of the target market. In this article, we will examine the key differences between managed funds and ETFs and provide guidance on which one an investment manager should choose.

Managed Funds

Managed funds are professionally managed portfolios of investments that are created and managed by fund managers. They are designed to provide investors with exposure to a diversified range of assets, such as equities, bonds and real estate, in a single transaction. This is done through the fund manager making investment decisions on behalf of the investors, seeking to deliver returns by investing in a range of assets.

One of the key advantages of managed funds is that they offer professional management and a diverse range of investments, which can be particularly attractive to investors who lack the knowledge or expertise to make informed investment decisions. Additionally, managed funds can be a convenient way for investors to access a variety of investment opportunities, as they allow investors to invest in a range of assets without having to make individual investment decisions.

However, managed funds are often more expensive for investors than ETFs due to the fees charged by fund managers for managing the fund which can be higher than the fees charged for ETFs. Additionally, managed funds are less transparent than ETFs as the fund manager does not have to disclose the specific investments that the fund holds. This can make it difficult for investors to assess the performance of the fund and to compare it with other investment options.

ETFs

ETFs are investment products that are traded on stock exchanges, like individual stocks. They are designed to provide investors with exposure to a diversified range of assets, such as equities, bonds and real estate. Unlike managed funds, ETFs are passively managed, meaning that the fund simply tracks the performance of an underlying index, such as the S&P 500 or the FTSE 100.

One of the key advantages of ETFs is their low cost. ETFs are often cheaper than managed funds, as they are passively managed and therefore, require less management time. This lower cost can make ETFs a more attractive option for investors who are looking to invest in a diverse range of assets without incurring high fees. Additionally, ETFs are typically more transparent than managed funds, as they are required to disclose the specific investments that the fund holds. This can make it easier for investors to assess the performance of the fund and to compare it with other investment options.

However, ETFs are less flexible than managed funds as they are required to track the performance of an underlying index. This means that the investment manager cannot make investment decisions based on their individual investment strategy or market conditions. Additionally, ETFs are subject to the same market risks as individual stocks, as the value of the fund can fluctuate based on changes in the market.

Conclusion

Taking all of this into account, which type of fund should an investment manager choose? The best choice for an investment manager will depend on their investment goals and the characteristics of the target market. Managed funds offer professional management and a diverse range of investments, but are often more expensive and less transparent than ETFs. On the other hand, ETFs are passively managed, offer lower costs and greater transparency, but are less flexible and subject to market risks. Ultimately, the choice between the two forms of funds will depend on a combination of factors, including the investment manager’s investment goals, the target market, and the specific characteristics of each product and how that relates to the investment strategy. Whether either fund is chosen, the key is to understand the unique benefits and limitations of each product and to make an informed decision based on individual investment requirements.