UNIT trust provider Unit Trust of Fiji (UTOF) now has $521million under management, exceeding a target it set last year by 114.46 percent and in less than eight months.
UTOF chief executive officer Vilash Chand said their portfolio growth comprised two elements – one is people investing in the Fund or direct investment from the people, and second is the value appreciation that comes from the portfolio itself.
He said both elements contributed to the size of the $521m portfolio recorded as of December last year.
“So all our investee companies, subsidy companies, their performance makes a difference to our returns.
“In 2024, we saw that most of the entities where we invested in performed very well and they have provided us returns as expected, which means we were able to provide the dividend returns to our investors,” Mr Chand said in response to a question from this newspaper.
UTOF chairperson Lavinia Kaumaitotoya also noted the recent acquisition of 9.5 percent shareholding in Kontiki Finance Ltd (KFL) worth $10.5m, making UTOF one of the major shareholders in KFL.
She said as portfolio managers, they would continue to further their interests in strategic investments to optimise returns for their unit holders.
“In 2025, we envisage more announcements as we position our interests in a number of multi-industry projects,” Ms Kaumaitotoya said.
“As we move forward, maintaining and enhancing investor confidence will remain a top priority.
“We are committed to upholding the standards that have earned us your trust and will continue to seek ways to engage and reassure our investors.”
UTOF is expected to issue a full statement as soon as formalities are addressed post-audit.
