5 new funds gain an Elite Rating this Valentine’s Day

By Darius McDermott on 10 February 2026 in News

Following our latest investment committee meeting, we’re pleased to announce that five funds have been added to the Elite Rated list. So, in the spirit of Valentine’s Day, here are five funds to fall in love with, each of these funds stood out for their disciplined process, experienced management teams and long-term potential.

abrdn Emerging Markets Income Equity

abrdn Emerging Markets Income Equity invests in dividend-paying companies across emerging markets, combining income generation with long-term growth. The team focuses on cash-flow sustainability and deep fundamental research, aiming to compound income through market cycles. Historical evidence suggests dividend payers in emerging markets have higher returns with lower volatility, a theme the fund embraces. Supported by on-the-ground teams across key regions, it offers both resilience in weaker markets and the potential for attractive income and capital growth over the long term.

AVI Japan Opportunity Trust

AVI Japan Opportunity Trust (AJOT) invests in undervalued Japanese small and mid-cap companies. Typically holding just 15–25 names, manager Joe Bauernfreund and his team focus on unlocking shareholder value through active engagement with management. Since launch in 2018, the fund has delivered strong performance across different market conditions. The 2025 merger with Fidelity Japan Trust expanded opportunities in this under-researched market. AJOT’s disciplined approach targets high-quality companies with excess cash, demonstrating a consistent ability to identify value and create long-term growth for investors.

Capital Gearing Trust

Capital Gearing Trust (CGT) is designed to preserve real wealth and deliver returns ahead of inflation. It invests flexibly across equities, bonds, ETFs, investment trusts, and cash, adjusting allocations as markets change. Over the past 43 years, CGT has delivered positive returns in 41 years, outperforming inflation consistently. Ideal for risk-averse investors with a long-term horizon, it emphasises capital protection without sacrificing growth.

Fidelity European Trust

Fidelity European Trust (FEV) is a disciplined European equity portfolio focused on quality at a reasonable price. Although not an income trust in nature, managers Sam Morse and Marcel Stotzel favour companies that can sustainably grow dividends. Risk-averse and primarily large-cap, the portfolio benefits from Fidelity’s global research team of 135 analysts. In 2025, FEV merged with Henderson European Trust to become the largest European equity trust in the sector, while maintaining its proven investment process and stock-picking excellence.

JPMorgan European Growth and Income

JPMorgan European Growth & Income (JEGI) aims to deliver consistent returns across market conditions. Holding around 90 attractively-valued, high-quality companies, it targets a 4% annual dividend, paid quarterly. Managed by an experienced trio of stock pickers, the trust prioritises risk avoidance while delivering long-term performance. Its all-weather, multi-cap approach combines growth and income, making it a strong core European holding that balances reliability with potential upside, appealing to investors seeking steady returns and a robust dividend stream.

Research the funds