F-class funds are designed for fee-based accounts, where investors pay advisors a separate fee for services rather than a commission. This structure impacts the Management Expense Ratio (MER).
* Management Expense Ratio (MER):
* F-Class Funds: Exclude embedded advisor commissions, resulting in lower MER. These funds are cost-effective for investors in fee-based arrangements.
* Front-End Funds: Include advisor commissions as part of the MER, increasing overall costs.
* Fee Structure:
* F-class funds charge a flat management fee without embedded commissions, offering more transparency.
* Front-end funds involve a sales charge (front-end load) that compensates advisors directly at the time of purchase.
Key Differences Between F-Class and Front-End FundsWhy A is CorrectThe lower MER of F-class funds reflects the absence of embedded advisor fees, making them more attractive to fee-conscious investors.
References:
* Volume 2, Section 25: Fee-Based Accounts-Advantages and Structure of F-Class Funds.
* Volume 2, Section 17: Mutual Funds-Charges Associated with Funds.