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:
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.
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.
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.
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
- Phone: 020 7601 1850
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Albion Technology & General VCT
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) |