Hung Tran |
Morningstar’s fund analysts assigned a Gold rating to just one fund in the past few weeks: DFA US Small Cap I. On the flip side, the research shop doled out negative ratings to Two Nuveen funds: Nuveen Tradewinds Global All-Cap A and Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities A.
According to Morningstar’s analysts, DFA US Small Cap's unique twist on passive investing sets it apart from its competition. “The fund doesn't have to adhere to an index, and stocks that meet its market-cap criteria can be substituted easily for one another because DFA believes they all have the same return profile,” they wrote. “This wide opportunity set and small individual positions also enable a higher asset base without its being capacity constrained.”
Nuveen’s negative ratings didn’t come as a big surprise given the departure of star manager
The fund manages
“A cloud of uncertainty hangs over Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities,” according to the analysts. "
The analysts further wrote that one of the Nuveen analysts leaving the firm oversaw coverage of basic materials stocks, “which this fund and the firm have long favored”. That sector will now be covered by a newer, less-experienced analyst.
Through March, investors have redeemed roughly one fourth of the fund's assets, which could have a negative impact on performance as holdings are sold quickly, according to the analysts.
“Uncertainty about the firm's stability and the appointing of unproven managers provide ample reason for investors to look elsewhere.”
The
Copyright: | (c) 2012 Financial Planning. All rights Reserved. |
Source: | Source Media, Inc. |
Wordcount: | 326 |
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