First Asset and BMO Asset Management introduce new ETFs

First Asset Preferred Share ETF is actively managed in order to address the complexities of, and capitalize on, the opportunities provided by the preferred share market as it changes and evolves, according to First Asset’s announcement released on Tuesday.

The ETF’s objective is to provide unitholders with regular distributions. It will consist primarily of investment-grade preferred shares and, to a lesser extent, investment-grade corporate debt and convertible bonds. At least 75% of the preferred shares and corporate debt in the ETF’s portfolio shall be rated investment-grade at the end of every reporting period, which occurs June 30 and Dec. 31.

First Asset Long Duration Fixed Income ETF is also actively managed and looks to provide unitholders with regular distributions and the opportunity for capital appreciation from the performance of a portfolio comprised primarily of longer dated developed markets, Canadian and U.S. government issued fixed income securities.

Signature Global Asset Management, an affiliate of First Asset and a division of Toronto-based CI Investments Inc., is the portfolio manager for both funds. Sector specialists within Signature Global Asset Management will manage the two First Asset actively managed ETFs.

In addition, BMO Asset Management is expanding its low-volatility ETF lineup with the launch of BMO Low Volatility Emerging Markets Equity ETF.

This ETF is designed for investors seeking long-term growth through emerging-market equities with greater downside protection than market-capitalization-weighted products, states BMO’s announcement released on Tuesday. The product also incorporates a smart beta investment strategy.

All BMO ETFs are managed and administered by BMO Asset Management.

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