Richard Stone, Chief Executive Officer for The Association of Investment Companies (the British equivalent to the Active Investment Company Alliance), discusses differences in the activist investor cultures in the United States and Great Britain, noting that the British model is more about engagement with the board and a collaborative effort to improve the business, while the U.S. model has shifted towards an entrenched fight to make change and capture opportunities. With Saba Capital emerging as the leading activist on both sides of the pond, Stone discusses how he sees activism continuing to change. In addition, he discusses how interval funds are viewed in England, and whether “venture capital trusts” (the country’s tax-advantaged alternative to business development companies) could work in private credit markets globally.
Is activism in the UK following or leading the action in the U.S.?
Disclosure: Views and opinions expressed are for informational and educational purposes only as of the date of production/writing/speaking and may change without notice at any time based on a multitude of factors. Speaker’s/presenter’s/author’s opinions are their own and may not necessarily represent the opinions of AICA, its Board, or its staff. Materials may contain “forward-looking” information that is not purely historical in nature, such as projections, forecasts, market return estimates, proposed or expected portfolio composition, and other items. Listed closed-end funds and business development companies trade on exchanges at prices that may be above or below their NAVs. There is no guarantee that an investor will be able to sell shares at a price greater than or equal to the purchase price or that a closed-end fund’s discount will narrow. Non-listed closed-end funds and business development companies do not offer investors daily liquidity but rather offer liquidity on a monthly, quarterly or semi-annual basis, often on a small percentage of shares. Closed-end funds often use leverage, which can increase the fund’s volatility (i.e., risk). Actual distribution amounts may vary with fund performance and other conditions. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. This material is not intended to be a recommendation or investment advice, does not constitute a solicitation to buy, sell or hold a security or an investment strategy, and is not provided in a fiduciary capacity. Shares of closed-end funds are subject to investment risks, including the possible loss of principal invested. Closed-end funds frequently trade at a discount to their net asset value (NAV).