| Valuation method | Value, $ | Upside, % |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | 25.13 | 37 |
| Intrinsic value (DCF) | 13.75 | -25 |
| Graham-Dodd Method | 0.57 | -97 |
| Graham Formula | n/a |
Lazard Global Total Return and Income Fund, Inc. (NYSE: LGI) is a closed-end balanced mutual fund managed by Lazard Asset Management LLC, offering investors diversified exposure to global equity and fixed income markets. Launched in 2004, the fund primarily targets large-cap equities (market cap >$5B) and short-duration fixed-income instruments, employing a fundamental, bottom-up investment strategy. Its portfolio construction emphasizes financial stability, competitive positioning, and macroeconomic trends, benchmarked against the MSCI World Index. As part of the Financial Services sector, LGI caters to income-seeking investors with a focus on sustainable returns, supported by Lazard’s expertise in global asset management. The fund’s hybrid approach—combining equity growth potential with fixed-income stability—positions it uniquely in the Asset Management - Income industry, appealing to those seeking balanced risk-adjusted returns in volatile markets.
LGI presents a compelling option for income-focused investors, given its global diversification, strong historical performance (reflected in a $208.7M market cap), and consistent dividend yield ($1.73/share). Its zero debt and positive operating cash flow ($22.1M) underscore financial health, while a beta of 1.115 suggests moderate market correlation. However, reliance on Lazard’s active management introduces strategy execution risk, and the fund’s niche focus may limit appeal during equity market outperformance. The absence of capital expenditures and negligible cash reserves ($367K) highlight its pure-play investment mandate, but investors should monitor fee structures and benchmark underperformance risks.
LGI’s competitive edge lies in Lazard’s institutional expertise and its dual-strategy approach (global equity + emerging income), offering a rare balance of growth and yield in closed-end funds. Its focus on large-cap equities with robust fundamentals mitigates downside risk, while short-duration fixed income provides liquidity—a contrast to peers heavily weighted in long-duration bonds. However, the fund faces stiff competition from low-cost ETFs and open-end mutual funds with similar mandates. Its active management, while a differentiator, comes with higher fees (~1.1% expense ratio), potentially eroding returns in stagnant markets. The fund’s small AUM ($208.7M) limits economies of scale compared to giants like BlackRock or PIMCO, but its nimble portfolio adjustments could capitalize on market dislocations more effectively. Performance hinges on Lazard’s stock-picking acumen, particularly in navigating currency risks inherent in its global mandate.