UniSuper is in the process of diversifying its manager mix in some of its asset classes, as it prepares to launch single asset class options for members early next year.
David St. John, UniSuper chief investment officer, said the fund was looking to add another manager in international fixed interest. Currently the fund’s $1.1 billion in international fixed interest is managed by Blackrock. UniSuper recently added Perennial Investment Partners to its Australian fixed interest line-up, splitting its $2.7 billion in that asset class between the new manager ($1.3 billion), and existing managers Macquarie Funds Management ($1.3 billion) and Super Loans Trust ($10.5 million). St. John said the fund was planning on launching six new single asset class options and an SRI balanced option. The fund’s existing seven investment options are cash, capital stable, conservative balanced, balanced, growth, socially responsible shares and shares.
A managed investment scheme holding 20 per cent or more in unlisted assets is deemed an illiquid scheme and is restricted from providing frequent liquidity, but there is no formal limit on how much super funds can allocate to these asset classes. The Conexus Institute writes this is a special privilege given to APRA-regulated super funds that should not be taken for granted.
David Bell and Geoff WarrenFebruary 6, 2025