The fee has been criticized by industry observers who say fund complexes shouldnt charge investors for low fund balances when declines may be the result of poorly performing markets. In an interview today Fidelity refused to comment on its investors reaction to the minimum-balance fee.
But the firm counters that fees for low balances have been in place at the complex for years and that the such measures are necessary because large numbers of accounts with low balances are costly to manage and drive up costs for all investors. "If the costs go up for providing services for the fund, it affects everybody in the fund," Crowley said. "Its a fairness issue for shareholders."
But Fidelity decided this week that investors who have opened new retirement accounts or maintain accounts with at least $100,000 in retail assets are not subject to the fee. Even though those investors might hold some accounts that have dipped below the $2,000 mark, their larger accounts will offset any higher costs, Crowley said.
"Its recognizing that theyre doing a considerable amount of business with us," she said of the decision.