Share Class

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Definition of 'Share Class'

A share class is a type of share in a mutual fund or exchange-traded fund (ETF). Each share class has its own set of features, such as its investment objective, expense ratio, and minimum investment amount.

**Investment objective**

The investment objective of a share class is the goal that the fund manager is trying to achieve with the fund. For example, an investment objective could be to grow capital over time, to provide income, or to track the performance of a particular index.

**Expense ratio**

The expense ratio is the fee that the fund charges to cover its operating expenses. This fee is deducted from the fund's returns, so it can have a significant impact on your investment returns.

**Minimum investment amount**

The minimum investment amount is the amount of money that you need to invest in order to buy shares in the fund. This amount can vary from fund to fund, and it can be a good way to compare the costs of different funds.

**Other features**

In addition to the three features listed above, there are a number of other features that can vary from share class to share class. These features can include:

* The redemption fee: This is a fee that you may be charged if you sell your shares within a certain period of time.
* The dividend reinvestment option: This option allows you to automatically reinvest your dividends into more shares of the fund.
* The trading frequency: This refers to how often you can trade your shares in the fund.

**Choosing the right share class**

When choosing a share class, it is important to consider your investment goals, your risk tolerance, and your budget. You should also compare the features of different share classes to make sure that you are getting the best value for your money.

**Conclusion**

Share classes can be a complex topic, but it is important to understand the different features of each share class before you invest. By understanding the different features, you can make an informed decision about which share class is right for you.

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