This is Money, 01 February 2025, Trusts facing fight to death with hedge fund vulture

ShareSoc has condemned investment platforms for restricting shareholder voting rights amid hedge fund manager Boaz Weinstein’s bid to take control of several UK investment trusts. Weinstein’s Saba Capital is pushing to replace boards at trusts such as Baillie Gifford US Growth and Keystone Positive Change, but small investors could block his plans if they turn out in force. Some platforms initially prevented investors from voting, with Lloyds Bank reversing its stance after media pressure. BNY Pershing has also sparked outrage by charging wealth managers £75 for proxy votes. ShareSoc director Amit Vedhara called such fees “diabolical” and stressed that investors have an “absolute and legal right to vote” without being penalised.

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