RockCreek Global Equality ETF (RCGE)

Overview

RCGE is an actively managed investment fund that specializes in creating a portfolio of companies with a commitment to gender balance in their organizational practices. The fund begins by assessing a broad universe of stocks, including the largest 3,000 companies in developed markets and the largest 1,000 in emerging markets based on market capitalization. In selecting companies for the portfolio, RCGE employs a rigorous filtering process that focuses on a company's gender equality score. This score is derived from key indicators such as gender balance within the workforce, the gender pay gap, and the existence of progressive policies related to parental leave and protection against sexual harassment. If a company's gender equality score cannot be assessed, it is automatically excluded from consideration.

In addition to the gender equality criteria, the fund applies an ethics screen to ensure that the selected companies adhere to ethical standards. Financial performance is also a critical factor; the fund evaluates essential financial metrics, particularly the debt-to-equity ratio, debt-to-EBITDA, and the overall strength of financial statements. Using these criteria, RCGE narrows its selection to a top tier of approximately 150 to 200 companies that excel in both gender equality and financial viability. The fund also maintains individual, country, and sector caps to ensure a diversified investment approach. To stay aligned with the evolving market conditions and company performances, RCGE rebalances its portfolio quarterly.

Products and Services

• Actively Managed Portfolio

  RCGE offers an actively managed investment portfolio that is specifically focused on companies promoting gender balance and equality in their operations. The portfolio is designed to adapt to market changes, taking into consideration shifts in gender equality scores and financial performance metrics.

• Gender Equality Assessment

  The fund employs a unique assessment tool to evaluate companies based on their gender equality practices. This includes analyzing the gender balance within organizations, measuring the gender pay gap, and reviewing policies related to parental leave and harassment prevention.

• Ethics Screening

  RCGE applies an ethics screening process to further refine its potential investments, ensuring that only companies that comply with specified ethical guidelines are included in the portfolio. This adds a layer of responsibility to the investment strategy.

• Financial Performance Evaluation

  The fund thoroughly examines companies’ financial health through metrics such as debt-to-equity ratios and debt-to-EBITDA calculations. This helps in selecting companies that are not only focused on gender equality but are also financially stable and viable.

• Quarterly Rebalancing

  To ensure optimal performance and alignment with market dynamics, RCGE implements a strategy of quarterly rebalancing of its investment portfolio. This practice allows the fund to adjust its holdings based on the latest financial data and gender equality scores.