Focusing on maximizing dividend income and franking credits, the strategy has proven popular with investors, managing over $685 million as of October 2024.

According to Ausbil, the fund aims to provide a steady stream of income that grows with inflation over time, with a portfolio of around 45 holdings selected primarily from the constituents of the S&P/ASX 200 index.

“We are excited to expand the availability of the Ausbil Active Dividend Income Fund through the upcoming ETF launch,” said Ausbil CEO Mark Knight.

“By offering ETFs, we aim to meet the growing demand from investors and self-managed pension funds seeking convenient and efficient access to our income-focused investment solutions.”

Michael Price, the strategy’s portfolio manager, described a “significant 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 clear competitive advantage,” he said.

“Through rigorous security selection and dynamic portfolio positioning, we aim to offer investors a more rewarding tax-efficient, dividend-focused investment experience.”

Since its inception in July 2018. the fund delivered 8.26% versus the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Accumulation Index return of 7.96%.

Earlier this year, Ausbil said it would restructure its Australian equities team following the retirement of Australian equities co-head John Grace, who is due to step down in December after almost 25 years as a fund manager.

However, effective July 1, the firm has made a number of changes, including the appointment of Nicholas Condoleon as deputy head of equities, Australia only, as well as portfolio manager of the Ausbil Active Sustainable Equity Fund. Mans Carlsson, head of ESG at the firm, was appointed co-managing director.

Moreover, at that time Jan Pandit was appointed as Deputy Head of Equities, Australian Delta Adjusted and as Portfolio Manager of the 130/30 Focus and Long Short Focus Fund supported by Chris Smith.

In addition, David Lloyd and Arden Jennings were appointed co-heads of emerging companies. Jennings also co-manages the small-cap and micro-cap strategies with Andrew Perros and Tom Cutler, while Beihan Irmako has been appointed as small-cap and micro-cap equity analyst.

Chris Smith has been appointed head of equity research in a supervisory capacity with Stella McMullen as his deputy for daily equity research and earnings patterns.

Ausbil also welcomed Syvanna Croyden earlier this month as investment research and advisory manager, joining from State Street Global Advisors.