Standard Chartered and AllianzGI Launch Gold ETF and Covered Call Strategy

Standard Chartered has launched its ninth sub-fund under its Variable Capital Company (VCC) platform, appointing Allianz Global Investors as sub-manager. The new Signature Select Enhanced Gold Income Fund is designed to offer investors exposure to gold while aiming to generate enhanced income through a covered call strategy.

The fund invests in gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and employs a covered call strategy. The objective is to provide regular income while maintaining participation in gold's long-term appreciation potential. Standard Chartered highlights that gold is recognized as an alternative asset with low correlation to traditional asset classes, potentially diversifying portfolios and offering resilience during uncertain market conditions.

AllianzGI will contribute its global investment capabilities, with its Global Multi Asset Team responsible for options selection and day-to-day portfolio management. This team possesses expertise in portfolio construction, derivatives implementation, and risk management. The fund is available to Accredited and Professional Investors across Standard Chartered's Priority, Priority Private, and Private Banking segments in Hong Kong, Singapore, the UAE, Jersey, Kenya, and Nigeria, with Taiwan expected to follow later in 2026.

According to Standard Chartered, the launch reinforces its wealth platform and provides clients with a differentiated strategy focused on diversification, income potential, and long-term portfolio resilience. This marks the ninth sub-fund under the VCC platform and the bank's fourth fund launch of 2026.