EAD: Publication of advice on eligible assets for UCITS

17/09/2025

On 26 June 2025, the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) published advice on the UCITS Eligible Assets Directive (EAD).

This advice was issued in response to a formal request from the European Commission, which sought input on the appropriateness of the types of underlying assets UCITS can invest in, either directly or indirectly. The UCITS EAD has been in effect since 2007, with only limited updates, and the Commission is now considering whether the framework requires changes. The advice aims to provide clarity and updates on the UCITS framework, particularly regarding asset eligibility, liquidity management, and the treatment of alternative assets.