BlackRock has launched a multi-strategy alternatives ESG fund in Europe that offers daily liquidity and meets Ucits regulatory criteria.
The single manager fund is said to be designed for investors seeking to add alternative sources of diversification and income to their bond portfolios.
The Systematic Multi-Strategy ESG Screened fund has a defensive long/short equity component to provide “defensive returns” by applying credit expertise to equity selection.
Jeff Rosenberg, senior portfolio manager of the fund, said: “The ongoing macro environment of low yields and rising inflation has forced investors to re-think the role of fixed income across portfolios as the return and diversification benefits have become more challenged.”
BlackRock said the fund is categorised under article 8 of the EU’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and applies ESG screening to issuers involved in activities such controversial weapons, oil sands, thermal coal, tobacco and civilian firearms sectors.
BlackRock said that it expects 70% of its fund launches, or the repositioning of funds in Europe this year, to qualify for either article 8 or 9 under SFDR.
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