Methodology

The shortlists for the awards are constructed using scores provided by the AIC, using Morningstar data.

Investment companies need a three-year track record to 30 June 2023 to be included in the main award categories but may be shortlisted in the Best New Issue category (covering the 24-month period to 30 June 2023).

Within each sector, companies have their cumulative fair NAV returns calculated over three discrete periods in sterling terms. Returns over the 12 months to 30 June 2023 are given a 40% weighting, the 12 months to 30 June 2022 are given a 30% weighting, while the 12 months to 30 June 2021 accounts for 20% of the overall score. The final 10% weight is given to the full cumulative NAV return over the three years to 30 June 2023.

These scores are added to give a single score out of 100, the highest of which will be considered for shortlisted places, with oversight from the judging panel. Shortlisted trusts and their boards will be contacted by Investment Week and asked to submit a questionnaire, which will then be used in the qualitative judging stage to decide the final winners. The judging panel for the awards includes some of the UK’s leading researchers and investors in investment companies, with many years’ experience in the industry.

Rising Star of the Year Award

This is an individual award which will be open to nominees with a maximum of six years’ experience in the investment company industry. Individuals can nominate themselves or be nominated by colleagues. They must be directly involved working on investment trusts/VCTs.

Judges will consider professional progression and performance but will also take into account factors including: passion for the sector; excellence in their role; improvements to existing processes or products; engagement in industry-wide initiatives; and helping promote the investment company sector more widely.

Jackie Beard Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Industry

Decided by the judging panel, this award will be presented in tribute to Jackie to an individual who has gone above and beyond their job role to make a significant contribution to the investment company sector during their career.

The judges will consider areas including: a track record of exceptional performance or service to the industry; dedication and enthusiasm for promoting the investment company sector and increasing investor engagement; as well as creating opportunities for others to succeed in the industry through mentoring, volunteering or educational initiatives.