MUFG Corporate Markets Selected as New Custodian and Administrator for ETF Shares Management’s Trio of US-Focused ETFs

6 min read | July 27, 2026 09:15 AM AEST | By Manish Choudhary

Effective 27 July 2026, ETF Shares Management Limited has appointed MUFG Corporate Markets FS Pty Limited as the new custodian and fund administrator, replacing Apex Fund Services Pty Ltd for three listed exchange-traded funds. This transition impacts the BEST ETFS US Quality ETF, HUGE ETFS Magnificent 7+ ETF, and WWWW ETFS US Technology ETF, all offering exposure to US equities and technology sectors. ETF Shares Management has assured investors that no action is necessary during this operational change, with custody and administration services transferring seamlessly on the specified date.

Key Points

  • ETF Shares Management Limited (BEST, HUGE, WWWW) appoints MUFG Corporate Markets FS Pty Limited as custodian and fund administrator
  • Transition replaces Apex Fund Services Pty Ltd, effective 27 July 2026
  • Affects three US-focused ETFs: BEST ETFS US Quality ETF, HUGE ETFS Magnificent 7+ ETF, and WWWW ETFS US Technology ETF
  • Investors are not required to take any action during the transition

Overview of ETF Shares Management and Its US-Focused ETF Portfolio

ETF Shares Management Limited serves as the responsible entity for multiple ASX-listed ETFs designed to provide Australian investors with targeted exposure to US equities. Its portfolio includes the BEST ETFS US Quality ETF focusing on quality US companies, the HUGE ETFS Magnificent 7+ ETF targeting large-cap technology and growth stocks, and the WWWW ETFS US Technology ETF which concentrates on the US technology sector. These funds cater to retail and institutional investors seeking international equity access via the Australian Securities Exchange.

Holding Australian Financial Services Licence number 562766, ETF Shares Management operates from Macquarie DTI, 3 Innovation Rd, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, and can be contacted at [email protected] or +61 (2) 8201 9400. The three ETFs represent distinct US equity investment strategies, offering diversified options aligned with different investor objectives and risk profiles amid a growing Australian ETF market.

MUFG Corporate Markets Assumes Custodian and Fund Administration Duties

From 27 July 2026, MUFG Corporate Markets FS Pty Limited will take over custodian and fund administration responsibilities for the three ETFs, replacing Apex Fund Services Pty Ltd. These roles are vital for asset safekeeping, transaction settlement, net asset value calculation, and regulatory compliance. While the service provider changes, the investment strategies and objectives of the ETFs remain intact.

MUFG Corporate Markets brings institutional-grade operational expertise to the portfolio, reflecting ETF Shares Management’s confidence in their ability to manage these US-focused funds. The transition was publicly announced via a company update to the ASX on 27 July 2026, ensuring transparency. Investors’ holdings and fund mandates will remain unaffected by this operational shift.

Investor Impact and No Required Actions During Transition

ETF Shares Management has clearly stated that investors in the BEST ETFS US Quality ETF, HUGE ETFS Magnificent 7+ ETF, and WWWW ETFS US Technology ETF do not need to take any action due to the custodian and administrator change. This behind-the-scenes transition will not disrupt investor holdings, fund valuations, or trading activities on the ASX.

Unit holders will maintain their investments under the same terms without needing to re-register holdings or execute new agreements. This seamless process aligns with standard practices in the Australian ETF industry, designed to minimize administrative disruption and reassure retail investors.

Access to Product Disclosure Statements and Target Market Determinations

ETF Shares Management provides up-to-date Product Disclosure Statements (PDS) and Target Market Determinations (TMD) for each affected ETF at www.etfshares.com.au. These documents detail investment strategies, risks, fees, and suitability criteria, serving as essential regulatory disclosures under Australian financial services laws.

Investors, both prospective and current, are encouraged to review these documents to understand their investment’s characteristics and risk profile. The availability of these disclosures underscores ETF Shares Management’s commitment to transparency and informed investor decision-making.

Exposure to US Equities and Technology Through Specialized ETFs

The three ETFs provide Australian investors with targeted access to the US equities market. The BEST ETFS US Quality ETF focuses on companies exhibiting strong financial metrics such as return on equity and earnings stability. The WWWW ETFS US Technology ETF targets the dynamic US technology sector, including software, semiconductors, and tech-enabled services. The HUGE ETFS Magnificent 7+ ETF offers exposure to large-cap technology and growth companies with significant market influence.

These offerings meet investor demand for US market exposure, the world’s largest equity market by capitalization, with technology sector investments playing a crucial role in long-term growth potential. Together, they enable diversified portfolio construction aligned with varying investment styles and risk appetites.

Role of Custodian and Fund Administration in Australian ETFs

Custodian and fund administration services are fundamental to the operation of Australian ETFs, ensuring secure asset custody, accurate net asset value calculations, transaction processing, and regulatory compliance. These functions are performed by licensed entities under strict regulatory oversight.

The appointment of MUFG Corporate Markets FS Pty Limited highlights the importance of selecting a capable service provider to manage complex operational demands. ETF Shares Management retains responsibility for investment management and governance, while the custodian and administrator handle daily operations. The transition is carefully coordinated to ensure uninterrupted service and accurate asset transfers.

Regulatory Compliance and Oversight

Operating under Australian Financial Services Licence 562766 granted by ASIC, ETF Shares Management complies with stringent regulatory requirements covering governance, disclosure, and fund administration. The custodian and administrator change follows the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and ASIC guidelines, with necessary notifications made to regulators.

This regulatory framework ensures investor protections and transparency. While specific ASIC approvals related to the custodian transition were not disclosed, ETF Shares Management’s public communication reflects adherence to disclosure obligations.

Investor Support and Communication Channels

Investors can access detailed fund information, including PDS, TMD, and fact sheets, on www.etfshares.com.au. Direct inquiries can be made via email at [email protected] or by phone at +61 (2) 8201 9400 during business hours. The 27 July 2026 company update regarding the custodian change exemplifies proactive investor communication.

ETF Shares Management continues to provide regular fund updates, annual reports, and distribution notices. The custodian transition will not affect the frequency or nature of these communications. Investors should maintain updated contact details with brokers or registries to receive all relevant information.

Ensuring Operational Continuity Post-Transition

The transition to MUFG Corporate Markets FS Pty Limited is designed to maintain operational excellence for the three ETFs. Coordination between outgoing and incoming administrators will ensure accurate transfer of fund records and assets, with minimal disruption to trading, valuations, or settlements.

Investors can expect the funds to continue operating in line with their stated strategies and objectives, with MUFG Corporate Markets providing the operational infrastructure. ETF Shares Management remains responsible for investment management and governance. Investors seeking further clarity on the transition’s impact are encouraged to review the relevant PDS and TMD, contact ETF Shares Management, or consult a financial adviser regarding their investment suitability.


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