Open Ended Investment Company (OEIC)

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Definition of 'Open Ended Investment Company (OEIC)'

An open-ended investment company (OEIC) is a type of investment fund that allows investors to buy and sell shares in the fund at any time. OEICs are similar to mutual funds, but there are some key differences.

One of the main differences between OEICs and mutual funds is that OEICs are not required to have a fixed number of shares outstanding. This means that the number of shares in an OEIC can fluctuate as investors buy and sell shares. In contrast, mutual funds must always have a fixed number of shares outstanding.

Another difference between OEICs and mutual funds is that OEICs are typically more tax-efficient than mutual funds. This is because OEICs are not subject to the same capital gains tax rules as mutual funds.

Finally, OEICs are typically more liquid than mutual funds. This is because OEICs can be traded on the stock exchange, while mutual funds cannot.

OEICs are a popular investment choice for investors who want the flexibility to buy and sell shares at any time. They are also a good choice for investors who are looking for a tax-efficient investment.

Here are some of the advantages of investing in an OEIC:

* Flexibility: OEICs allow investors to buy and sell shares at any time. This makes them a good choice for investors who want to be able to react to market changes quickly.
* Tax efficiency: OEICs are typically more tax-efficient than mutual funds. This is because OEICs are not subject to the same capital gains tax rules as mutual funds.
* Liquidity: OEICs can be traded on the stock exchange, which makes them a good choice for investors who need to be able to sell their shares quickly.

Here are some of the disadvantages of investing in an OEIC:

* Risk: OEICs are subject to the same risks as other investments, such as the risk of losing money.
* Costs: OEICs typically have higher fees than mutual funds.
* Complexity: OEICs can be more complex than mutual funds, which can make them difficult to understand for some investors.

Overall, OEICs are a good investment choice for investors who want the flexibility to buy and sell shares at any time, who are looking for a tax-efficient investment, and who need to be able to sell their shares quickly. However, OEICs are not without their risks, and investors should carefully consider all of the risks before investing.

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