The Albion Techology & General VCT

Fund Overview

Albion Technology & General VCT provides investors with a balanced portfolio of technology and generalist companies. As of September 2023, the VCT manages net assets of approximately £117.4 million and targets long-term capital growth alongside regular tax-free dividend payments. Total returns to shareholders since inception amount to 204.23p per share.

Investment Strategy

Albion Technology & General VCT adopts a diversified investment strategy designed to balance the higher risks of early-stage technology businesses with the steady returns from more mature, income-generating companies. This approach, often referred to as an "all-weather portfolio," seeks to provide consistent returns across different market cycles.

Key Elements of the Strategy:

  1. Sector Focus:

    • Technology: Investing in innovative companies leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, software development, and digital transformation.
    • Healthcare and Life Sciences: Supporting businesses developing medical devices, diagnostics, and treatments aimed at improving patient outcomes.
    • Renewable Energy and Sustainability: Backing projects and companies focused on clean energy, resource efficiency, and sustainability initiatives.
    • Generalist Industries: Diversified investments in established sectors such as education, leisure, and financial services.
  2. Investment Criteria:

    • Companies with scalable business models capable of addressing large markets.
    • Management teams with a proven track record of execution.
    • Strong intellectual property (IP) or market differentiation.
    • Clear potential for exit opportunities, including trade sales or IPOs.
  3. Portfolio Diversification:

    • Aims to maintain a balanced portfolio of 60-70 companies across sectors and stages of development.
    • Early-stage investments are offset by holdings in mature, income-generating businesses, which help to stabilize returns.
  4. Geographic Focus:

    • Primarily targets UK-based companies, leveraging local expertise and networks.

Recent Investments and Focus Areas:

  • Technology-Driven Growth: Investments in SaaS (Software as a Service) platforms that serve key industries such as healthcare and finance.
  • Sustainable Innovation: Funding renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar, contributing to the UK’s net-zero ambitions.
  • Healthcare Solutions: Companies like Arecor Therapeutics, which are advancing novel therapeutics and biopharmaceuticals.

How This Benefits Investors:

By blending early-stage, high-growth opportunities with income-generating assets, Albion Technology & General VCT offers a balanced investment approach designed to:

  • Mitigate the risks associated with venture capital investments.
  • Deliver tax-free dividends and long-term capital appreciation.
  • Support innovative businesses contributing to the UK economy.

Performance Metrics

Year NAV Total Return (%) Dividends Paid (p/share)
2024 5.0 3.76
2023 4.5 3.50
2022 4.0 3.25

Note: NAV Total Return is the sum of NAV growth and dividends paid.

Tax Benefits

Investors benefit from:

  • 30% income tax relief: Available on investments up to £200,000 annually.
  • Tax-free dividends: Regular income payments without tax obligations.
  • Capital gains tax exemption: No CGT on share disposals.

Contact Information

Why Consider Access EIS Instead?

Both Albion Technology & General VCT and Access EIS offer tax-efficient ways to invest in innovative UK businesses, but they cater to different investment needs:

Feature Albion Technology & General VCT Access EIS
Investment Focus Technology and generalist companies, including AIM-listed and private businesses Early-stage, high-growth UK startups
Minimum Investment £6,000 £5,000
Tax Benefits - 30% Income Tax Relief
- Tax-Free Dividends
- Capital Gains Tax Exemption
- 30% Income Tax Relief
- Capital Gains Tax Deferral
Liquidity Some liquidity via AIM and buyback schemes Illiquid, with returns realized after ~5–7 years
Dividends Regular, tax-free dividends No dividends; all profits reinvested
Risk Level High (AIM-listed and private companies) Very High (early-stage startups)

Learn More About Access EIS