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LONDON - Ecofin Global Utilities and Infrastructure Trust plc (LSE: EGL) has announced a solid performance for the past year, with significant returns and strategic moves aimed at enhancing shareholder value. The investment trust, which focuses on essential utilities and infrastructure assets, reported a net asset value (NAV) total return of 19.9% and a share price total return of 29.4% over the 12 months to February 28, 2025.
Chairman David Simpson, speaking at today’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Clermont Hotel in London, highlighted the trust’s robust performance and the strategic exposures in regulated utilities and infrastructure assets. These sectors have demonstrated resilient earnings and strong growth potential, particularly in the US energy market, where the trust’s stock selections have performed exceptionally well amid the energy transition and decarbonization demands.
EGL has taken several steps to address the discount to NAV and improve shareholder outcomes. Over 5.8 million shares were bought back during the year, with an additional 2.7 million shares repurchased since the year-end. Furthermore, the investment management fee was reduced on October 1, 2024, dividends were increased above the rate of inflation, and the Investment Manager transitioned to RWC Asset Management (Redwheel) without changes to the portfolio investment team.
In efforts to strengthen shareholder engagement, EGL has invited questions ahead of the AGM and established a presence on LinkedIn. The trust is also streamlining administrative and shareholder communication arrangements, transitioning to Frostrow for AIFM and appointing specialist communications advisers. These initiatives are part of a broader plan to enhance the quality of investor communications and disclosure.
The portfolio management team, led by Jean-Hugues de Lamaze, will provide an update on EGL’s performance to shareholders, with a presentation and companion video to be made available on the company’s website following the AGM’s conclusion. No new material information will be disclosed in this presentation.
This information is based on a press release statement.
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