The Unicorn AIM VCT
Fund Overview
Unicorn AIM VCT provides investors with access to a diversified portfolio of small and medium-sized companies listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM). Managed by Unicorn Asset Management, the fund focuses on long-term capital growth and delivering regular tax-free dividends. As of September 2023, the fund managed assets of £328 million, making it one of the largest AIM VCTs in the UK.
Investment Strategy
Unicorn AIM VCT’s strategy centers around investing in established AIM-listed businesses with proven track records, strong management teams, and scalable business models. The fund is diversified across multiple sectors, reducing risk while providing consistent returns.
Key Elements of the Strategy:
Sector Focus:
- Technology: Companies driving innovation through software and digital platforms.
- Healthcare: Businesses advancing diagnostics, medtech, and biotechnology.
- Consumer Goods: Brands with scalable and sustainable operations.
- Industrial Products: Businesses with unique solutions in manufacturing and engineering.
Investment Criteria:
- Companies with consistent revenue generation and profitability.
- Strong market positions with potential for further expansion.
- Proven management teams driving sustainable growth.
Portfolio Diversification:
- Holds a portfolio of over 80 companies across various industries.
- Balances high-growth opportunities with stable, income-generating businesses.
Geographic Focus:
- Primarily UK-based companies listed on AIM.
Recent Investments and Focus Areas:
- Tech-Driven Growth: Backing SaaS platforms with scalable business models.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Companies offering solutions for energy efficiency and carbon reduction.
- Consumer Innovation: Brands tapping into emerging consumer trends.
How This Benefits Investors:
Unicorn AIM VCT provides exposure to a portfolio of established and emerging AIM-listed companies, delivering the potential for capital growth and regular tax-free income.
Performance Metrics
| Year | NAV Total Return (%) | Dividends Paid (p/share) |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 7.0 | 6.0 |
| 2023 | 5.8 | 5.5 |
| 2022 | 4.5 | 5.0 |
Note: NAV Total Return is calculated as 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.
Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may change in the future.
Contact Information
- Phone: 020 7253 0889
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Unicorn AIM VCT
Why Consider Access EIS Instead?
Both Unicorn AIM VCT and Access EIS offer tax-efficient ways to invest in innovative UK businesses, but they cater to different investment needs:
| Feature | Unicorn AIM VCT | Access EIS |
|---|---|---|
| Investment Focus | Small and medium-sized AIM-listed companies | Early-stage, high-growth UK startups |
| Minimum Investment | £5,000 | £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 companies) | Very High (early-stage startups) |