After our first year in operation, in late 2023 we made changes to the establishment documents of the Merx Wholesale 1 PIE Trust to provide greater clarity on the treatment of exit fees. The documents now state clearly that exit fees, if payable, will be contributed back into the fund – not to us as managers.
Here’s our rationale.
Exit fees explained
Exit fees are a common feature in investment funds, generally payable to help manage the impact of short-notice withdrawals on the remaining investors. For the Merx Wholesale 1 PIE Trust, an exit fee of 2.5% of the withdrawal amount is payable if withdrawals are made with less than six-months’ notice.
Why direct exit fees back to the Fund?
Our recent clarification is about where these exit fees go. Unlike some funds where exit (or even entry) fees may end up as additional revenue for the managers, we have taken a different approach. If payable, exit fees are contributed back into the fund itself.
As always, our goal has been to simplify.
Early withdrawals pose a risk and inconvenience to other investors in the fund; they can create a drag on the fund’s overall performance – therefore, investor returns. By directing fees back to the fund, we can balance the fund’s liquidity with the flexibility for investors to exit.
This decision reflects our core principle of shared risks and rewards amongst all investors, including us as managers. Once again, it’s about building the fund we want to be a part of – a fund that’s committed to fairness, transparency, and alignment of interests.
Like to join us on this journey?
Click here to learn more or give us a call on 09 215 9364 to discuss further. We look forward to hearing from you.
Note: This article is intended to provide general information and does not constitute financial advice. We recommend you speak with a financial adviser for advice tailored to your individual circumstances. Potential investors with Merx must qualify as Wholesale Investors as that term is defined in sections 3(2)(a) – (c) or 3(3)(a) of Schedule 1 of the Financial Markets Conduct Act (“FMCA”). The Trust is not suitable for retail investors.