Brandes International Equity Fund Class A (BIEAX)

Overview

The fund is a financial vehicle designed to offer investors exposure to foreign equity markets. It primarily engages in acquiring equity securities of companies based outside the United States. These corporations are typically well-established entities in their respective fields and sectors, with a significant market presence reflected by a market capitalization exceeding $5 billion at the time of investment. The fund's definition of a "foreign" company encompasses several criteria, including the company's domicile, its principal place of business, its primary listing on stock exchanges, and the origin of its revenue. This broad definition ensures that the investments capture the essence of non-U.S. markets across a diverse geographical landscape.

Another pivotal aspect of the fund's strategy is the commitment to maintain a substantial portion of its assets in foreign equities. Specifically, it pledges to allocate at least 80% of its net assets, as measured at the time of purchase, to stocks of companies located in a minimum of three different countries outside of the United States. This approach underscores the fund’s aim to diversify investor portfolios through substantial international exposure, reflecting an inherent belief in the potential for growth in global markets.

Products and Services

• Equity Securities of Foreign Companies

This product represents the core of the fund's investment strategy, involving the purchase of shares in companies domiciled outside of the United States. The selection criteria focus on firms with a substantial market presence, ensured by a minimum market capitalization of $5 billion. This threshold is indicative of a company's stability and potential for growth, traits deemed attractive in foreign investment ventures. By investing in such securities, the fund aims to provide its clients access to the growth potential of global markets.

• Geographically Diversified Portfolio

A hallmark of the fund's services is its diversified investment approach, ensuring that its holdings span a minimum of three different countries outside the United States. This strategy not only mitigates the risk associated with investing in a single country but also capitalizes on the growth opportunities present in various international markets. The geographical diversity of the portfolio is a critical factor in spreading investment risks and harnessing the potential of global economic development for the benefit of the fund's clients.