ClearBridge Investments has announced three new actively managed exchange-traded funds (ETF) on the ASX with the aim of offering investors exposure to global infrastructure assets.
Namely, the ClearBridge Global Infrastructure Value Fund (Hedged) Active ETF (ASX: CIVH), ClearBridge Global Infrastructure Value Fund Active ETF (ASX: CUIV) and ClearBridge Global Infrastructure Income Fund (Hedged) Active ETF (ASX: CIIH) are now available on the country’s largest exchange.
The firm’s APAC business development lead, Matt Bushby, explained that investors are increasingly seeking resilient income sources and differentiated equity exposures amid rising market uncertainty.
“Listed infrastructure stands out for its defensive characteristics, stable cash flows and long-term capital growth potential, particularly when compared with broader equities and fixed income,” Bushby said.
Expounding on the strategy of each fund, ClearBridge clarified that the Global Infrastructure Value Fund Active ETFs typically invest in 30 to 60 listed securities across key global infrastructure sectors such as utilities, renewables, toll roads, airports and communications.
According to the company, both the hedged and unhedged CUIV versions of the investment vehicle offer flexibility depending on currency preferences.
“Nearly half of the portfolio is in regulated utilities, a sector not typically impacted by international trade,” Bushby added. “Regulation and cost pass-through mechanisms may shelter these companies from global trade and tariff headwinds more effectively than other sectors.”
Meanwhile, CIIH focuses on income-oriented infrastructure investments with the aim of delivering consistent and reliable income.
“Infrastructure is a long-term investment in essential services, and its ability to provide consistent income can be particularly valuable during periods of market volatility,” Bushby said.
“ETFs continue to play a growing role in asset allocation and portfolio construction.
"We remain committed to meeting the evolving needs of investors by providing simple, transparent and flexible access to the ClearBridge managed funds.”
The announcement from ClearBridge, which is part of the Franklin Templeton group of companies, follows the recent introduction of the Martin Currie Real Income Fund – Active ETF (ASX: R3AL) in Australia.
