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PLYMOUTH, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. (the Firm), the investment adviser for the Ave Maria Mutual Funds and the Schwartz Value Focused Fund, has announced a reduction in the management fee of three funds effective May 1, 2022. The management fee of the Ave Maria Focused Fund (AVEAX) will be lowered from 0.85% to 0.75% per year, bringing the total expense ratio down to 1.12%. The Ave Maria World Equity Fund (AVEWX), will lower its management fee from 0.95% to 0.75% per year, reducing the total expense ratio to 1.02%. Also, the Schwartz Value Focused Fund (RCMFX) will reduce its management fee from 0.95% to 0.75% per year, resulting in a 1.26% total expense ratio. George P. Schwartz, CFA, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “As fund assets have appreciated, cost savings have been realized and our Board of Trustees has decided to pass those savings along in the form of reduced expenses for our shareholders.” Over the past five years, the Ave Maria Mutual Funds have reduced expenses for several of its funds to the benefit of shareholders. The Firm also announced the promotion of Sean C. Gaffney, CFA, to co-Portfolio Manager of the Ave Maria World Equity Fund (AVEWX), joining Lead Portfolio Manager, Anthony W. Gennaro, CFA, CPA. Before joining Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., Sean worked as an investment analyst at Plante Moran Financial Advisors. Sean holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Arts degree in Theology from the Augustine Institute, and has earned the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. About Ave Maria Mutual Funds Ave Maria Mutual Funds is the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S with $2.8 billion in assets under management. The six no-load funds invest in companies that do not violate core values and teachings of the Catholic Church. The two largest funds are the $924 million Ave Maria Rising Dividend Fund (Ticker: AVEDX) and $882 million Ave Maria Growth Fund (Ticker: AVEGX). For more information about Ave Maria Mutual Funds, call 1-866-AVE-MARIA (866-283-6274) or visit www.avemariafunds.com. About Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Founded in 1980, the Firm is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan with a branch office in Ave Maria, Florida. In managing the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, investments are made only if companies meet the Funds’ financial and moral criteria. As such, returns may be lower or higher than if decisions were based solely on investment considerations. The Funds’ method of security selection may or may not be successful and the Funds may underperform or outperform the stock market as a whole. All mutual funds are subject to market risk, including possible loss of principal. For more information about Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., visit www.schwartzinvest.com. Ave Maria Mutual Funds Prospectus Request a prospectus, which includes investment objectives, risks, fees, charges and expenses, and other information that you should read and consider carefully before investing. The prospectus can be obtained by calling 1-866-283-6274 or it can be viewed at www.avemariafunds.com. Schwartz Value Focused Fund Prospectus Prospective investors should read the prospectus carefully and consider the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus, which can be obtained by calling 1-800-449-9240 or online at www.schwartzvaluefocusedfund.com, contains this and other important information. Distributed by Ultimus Fund Distributors LLC. 14774355-UFD-04042022 Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is not affiliated with Ultimus Fund Distributors, LLC.
PLYMOUTH, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Texas Pacific Land Corporation (TPL) Board of Directors has refused to act on an advisory ballot proposal approved by 55.9% of shareholders. Despite the majority vote held on December 29, 2021, to declassify the Board of Directors, the Board has not taken action to do so. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., on behalf of clients, owns over 74,000 shares of TPL (approximately 1% of the shares outstanding) with a market value more than $96,000,000. Having invested in TPL since 2015, Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is one of TPL’s largest shareholders and believes TPL’s board has a fiduciary obligation to implement the owners’ wishes. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. believes doing so would clearly be in the best interest of the company and all its shareholders. TPL currently has three classes of board members. If declassified, all directors would be required to stand for re-election yearly. Currently, only one-third of the board members stand for re-election each year. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is against staggered boards and believes they only serve to entrench board members, which is not in the best interest of all shareholders. On December 29, 2021, Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., along with the majority of shareholders, voted to declassify, which the TPL Board has refused to do. We recommend that other TPL shareholders also encourage the Board to implement the declassification for which we owners have voted. George P. Schwartz, Chairman & CEO Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. About Ave Maria Mutual Funds Ave Maria Mutual Funds is the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S with nearly $2.9 billion in assets under management. The six no-load funds invest in companies that do not violate core values and teachings of the Catholic Church. The two largest funds are the $937 million Ave Maria Rising Dividend Fund (Ticker: AVEDX) and $912 million Ave Maria Growth Fund (Ticker: AVEGX). For more information about Ave Maria Mutual Funds, call 1-866-AVE-MARIA (866-283-6274) or visit www.avemariafunds.com. About Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Founded in 1980, the Firm is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan with a branch office in Ave Maria, Florida. In managing the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, investments are made only if companies meet the Funds’ financial and moral criteria. As such, returns may be lower or higher than if decisions were based solely on investment considerations. The Funds’ method of security selection may or may not be successful and the Funds may underperform or outperform the stock market as a whole. All mutual funds are subject to market risk, including possible loss of principal. For more information about Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., visit www.schwartzinvest.com. As of 12–31–21, the holding percentages of Texas Pacific Land Corporation in the Ave Maria Mutual Funds were as follows: Ave Maria Bond Fund (1.3%), Ave Maria Focused Fund (1.8%), Ave Maria Growth Fund (0.6%), Ave Maria Rising Dividend Fund (3.9%) and Ave Maria Value Fund (9.7%). As of 12-31-21, the Schwartz Value Focused Fund had a 29.1% holding percentage in Texas Pacific Land Corporation. Fund holdings are subject to change and should not be considered purchase recommendations. There is no assurance that the securities mentioned remain in the Fund’s portfolio or that securities sold have not been repurchased. Ave Maria Mutual Funds Prospectus Request a prospectus, which includes investment objectives, risks, fees, charges and expenses, and other information that you should read and consider carefully before investing. The prospectus can be obtained by calling 1-866-283-6274 or it can be viewed at www.avemariafunds.com. Schwartz Value Focused Fund Prospectus Prospective investors should read the prospectus carefully and consider the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus, which can be obtained by calling 1-800-449-9240 or online at www.schwartzvaluefocusedfund.com, contains this and other important information. Distributed by Ultimus Fund Distributors LLC. 14588187-UFD-03042022 Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is not affiliated with Ultimus Fund Distributors, LLC.
PLYMOUTH, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. (the Firm), investment adviser for the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, has seen an incredible growth of interest in the morally responsible investment (MRI) strategies presented in the Ave Maria Mutual Funds. In order to satisfy the demand among advisors and their clients, the Firm has hired an industry professional with a deep understanding of the needs of advisors who also aligns with the principles and culture of the organization. Robert M. Geppner has joined Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. as Director of Strategic Planning, having recently retired from Franklin Templeton Investments where he crafted an illustrious 34-year career. Bob has worked in all facets of intermediary distribution, beginning his career as a wholesaler in 1987 and advancing to Executive Vice President - Head of National Sales. In his new role with the Firm, Bob will further cultivate relationships with financial advisors across the full spectrum of distributors. George P. Schwartz, CFA, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, remarked, “Bob is a tremendous addition to our Firm. We are confident that with his industry expertise and his reputation for integrity, he will expand the presence of the Ave Maria Mutual Funds within the broker dealer community.” Geppner will report to Michael J. Schwartz, Executive Vice President – Institutional Sales, who added, “I am excited to work with a such an accomplished professional as Bob and I’m sure he’ll contribute significantly to the expansion of our family of Catholic mutual funds.” Bob Geppner commented, “The interest in 'Impact Investing' has focused a spotlight on MRI and I hope to leverage my experience to significantly expand the placement of our family of Catholic mutual funds.” About Ave Maria Mutual Funds Ave Maria Mutual Funds is the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S. with nearly $3.0 billion in assets under management. The six no-load funds invest in companies that do not violate core values and teachings of the Catholic Church. The two largest funds are the $1 billion Ave Maria Growth Fund (Ticker: AVEGX) and $950 million Ave Maria Rising Dividend Fund (Ticker: AVEDX). For more information about Ave Maria Mutual Funds, call 1-866-AVE-MARIA (866-283-6274) or visit www.avemariafunds.com. About Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Founded in 1980, the Firm is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan with a branch office in Ave Maria, Florida. In managing the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, investments are made only if companies meet the Funds’ financial and moral criteria. As such, returns may be lower or higher than if decisions were based solely on investment considerations. The Funds’ method of security selection may or may not be successful and the Funds may underperform or outperform the stock market as a whole. All mutual funds are subject to market risk, including possible loss of principal. For more information about Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., visit www.schwartzinvest.com. Request a prospectus, which includes investment objectives, risks, fees, expenses, and other information that you should read and consider carefully before investing. The prospectus can be obtained by calling 1-866-283-6274 or it can be viewed at www.avemariafunds.com. Distributed by Ultimus Fund Distributors LLC. 12966406-UFD-6/9/2021
PLYMOUTH, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. (the Firm), the investment adviser for the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, has announced portfolio manager promotions effective January 1, 2021. For the Ave Maria Value Fund (Ticker: AVEMX), Ryan M. Kuyawa, CFA was named co- Portfolio Manager, joining Lead Portfolio Manager Timothy S. Schwartz, CFA. For the Ave Maria World Equity Fund (Ticker: AVEWX), Anthony W. Gennaro, CFA, CPA was named co-Portfolio Manager, joining Lead Portfolio Manager Joseph W. Skornicka, CFA. George P. Schwartz, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “Ryan and Anthony both joined the Firm in 2019 and have significant investment experience. In their tenures with Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. they have proven themselves as outstanding research analysts and we are confident in their abilities in their new roles as portfolio managers.” About Ave Maria Mutual Funds Ave Maria Mutual Funds is the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S with over $2.6 billion in assets under management. The six no-load funds invest in companies that do not violate core values and teachings of the Catholic Church. The two largest funds are the $949 million Ave Maria Growth Fund (Ticker: AVEGX) and $858 million Ave Maria Rising Dividend Fund (Ticker: AVEDX). For more information about Ave Maria Mutual Funds, call 1-866-AVE-MARIA (866-283-6274) or visit www.avemariafunds.com. About Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Founded in 1980, the Firm is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan with a branch office in Ave Maria, Florida. In managing the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, investments are made only if companies meet the Funds’ financial and moral criteria. As such, returns may be lower or higher than if decisions were based solely on investment considerations. The Funds’ method of security selection may or may not be successful and the Funds may underperform or outperform the stock market as a whole. All mutual funds are subject to market risk, including possible loss of principal. For more information about Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., visit www.schwartzinvest.com. Request a prospectus, which includes investment objectives, risks, fees, expenses, and other information that you should read and consider carefully before investing. The prospectus can be obtained by calling 1-866-283-6274 or it can be viewed at www.avemariafunds.com. Distributed by Ultimus Fund Distributors LLC. 11706403-UFD-12/23/2020
PLYMOUTH, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., a registered investment adviser established in 1980 and manager of the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, has announced the launch of its newest fund, the Ave Maria Focused Fund (Ticker: AVEAX) effective May 1, 2020. The Fund is registered with the Securities Exchange Commission as a non-diversified investment company (a mutual fund). The Ave Maria Focused Fund will invest in companies believed by the Adviser to offer high earnings growth potential with a goal of long-term capital appreciation. The portfolio will be comprised of companies of all sizes and the managers may invest a substantial portion of its assets in a small number of issuers, industries, or business sectors, in essence, a concentrated portfolio. The fund will use the same moral screens as the other Ave Maria Mutual Funds. The lead portfolio manager of the fund is Chadd M. Garcia, CFA, and the co-manager is Adam P. Gaglio, CFA. The two are also portfolio managers of the Ave Maria Growth Fund (Ticker: AVEGX). George P. Schwartz, CFA, Chairman and CEO of Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., said, "The Ave Maria Focused Fund is geared towards pro-family, pro-life investors desiring a more concentrated and performance-oriented mutual fund. In our opinion, the recent market downturn has created some great opportunities to buy shares of truly great companies at bargain prices, many of which are well below their intrinsic value. Chadd and Adam have proven to be excellent stock pickers and this new fund may appeal to long-term investors with greater tolerance for risk.” About Ave Maria Mutual Funds Ave Maria Mutual Funds is the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S with over $2.4 billion in assets under management. The six no-load funds invest in companies that do not violate core values and teachings of the Catholic Church. For more information about Ave Maria Mutual Funds, call 1-866-AVE-MARIA (866-283-6274) or visit www.avemariafunds.com. About Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Founded in 1980, the Firm is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan with a branch office in Ave Maria, Florida. In managing the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, investments are made only if companies meet the Funds’ financial and moral criteria. As such, returns may be lower or higher than if decisions were based solely on investment considerations. The Funds’ method of security selection may or may not be successful and the Funds may underperform or outperform the stock market as a whole. All mutual funds are subject to market risk, including possible loss of principal. For more information about Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., visit www.schwartzinvest.com. Request a prospectus, which includes investment objectives, risks, fees, expenses and other information that you should read and consider carefully before investing. The prospectus can be obtained by calling 1-866-283-6274 or it can be viewed at www.avemariafunds.com. Distributed by Ultimus Fund Distributors LLC. 10126707-UFD-4/28/2020
PLYMOUTH, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., a registered investment adviser established in 1980 and manager of the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, has announced the promotion of Michael J. Schwartz from Senior Vice President to Executive Vice President effective March 1, 2020. George P. Schwartz, CFA, Chairman and CEO of Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., said, “"With more than 18 years of service at the Firm, Mike has proven to be an effective and strategic leader. He has spearheaded the very successful nationwide development of the Ave Maria Mutual Funds through investment intermediaries and institutional investors. Assets of these pro-life and pro-family mutual funds now exceed $2.7 billion. Supported by a talented and dedicated team of professionals, Mike will no doubt continue to play a key role in the success of Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc.” About Ave Maria Mutual Funds Ave Maria Mutual Funds is the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S with $2.7 billion in assets under management. The five no-load funds invest in companies that do not violate core values and teachings of the Catholic Church. The two largest funds are the $962 million Ave Maria Rising Dividend Fund (Ticker: AVEDX) and $857 million Ave Maria Growth Fund (Ticker: AVEGX). For more information about Ave Maria Mutual Funds, call 1-866-AVE-MARIA (866-283-6274) or visit www.avemariafunds.com. About Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Founded in 1980, the Firm is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan with a branch office in Ave Maria, Florida. In managing the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, investments are made only if companies meet the Funds’ financial and moral criteria. As such, returns may be lower or higher than if decisions were based solely on investment considerations. The Funds’ method of security selection may or may not be successful and the Funds may underperform or outperform the stock market as a whole. All mutual funds are subject to market risk, including possible loss of principal. For more information about Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., visit www.schwartzinvest.com. Request a prospectus, which includes investment objectives, risks, fees, expenses and other information that you should read and consider carefully before investing. The prospectus can be obtained by calling 1-866-283-6274 or it can be viewed at www.avemariafunds.com. Distributed by Ultimus Fund Distributors LLC. 9672504-UFD-3/6/2020
PLYMOUTH, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. (the Firm), the investment adviser for the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, has announced portfolio manager changes and promotions effective January 1, 2020. For the Ave Maria Rising Dividend Fund (Ticker: AVEDX), Joseph W. Skornicka, CFA was named Lead Portfolio Manager, joining co-Portfolio Manager, George P. Schwartz, CFA. For the Ave Maria Growth Fund (Ticker: AVEGX), Adam P. Gaglio, CFA was named Lead Portfolio Manager and is joined by Chadd M. Garcia, CFA as co-Portfolio Manager. For the Ave Maria Bond Fund (Ticker: AVEFX), George P. Schwartz, CFA was named co-Portfolio Manager, joining Lead Portfolio Manager Brandon S. Scheitler. Additionally, Timothy S. Schwartz, CFA was named the Firm’s President and Joseph W. Skornicka, CFA was named Chief Investment Officer. Cathy M. Stoner, CPA, IACCP was named Chief Financial Officer and both Adam P. Gaglio, CFA and Chadd M. Garcia, CFA were promoted to Vice Presidents. George P. Schwartz, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, remarked, “The long-planned retirement of our esteemed colleague, Richard L. Platte, Jr., CFA created the opportunity for these promotions. The Firm’s investment professionals have proven themselves as outstanding portfolio managers and research analysts and are enthusiastically pursuing their new assignments.” About Ave Maria Mutual Funds Ave Maria Mutual Funds is the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S with $2.6 billion in assets under management. The five no-load funds invest in companies that do not violate core values and teachings of the Catholic Church. The two largest funds are the $962 million Ave Maria Rising Dividend Fund (Ticker: AVEDX) and $857 million Ave Maria Growth Fund (Ticker: AVEGX). For more information about Ave Maria Mutual Funds, call 1-866-AVE-MARIA (866-283-6274) or visit www.avemariafunds.com. About Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Founded in 1980, the Firm is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan with a branch office in Ave Maria, Florida. In managing the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, investments are made only if companies meet the Funds’ financial and moral criteria. As such, returns may be lower or higher than if decisions were based solely on investment considerations. The Funds’ method of security selection may or may not be successful and the Funds may underperform or outperform the stock market as a whole. All mutual funds are subject to market risk, including possible loss of principal. For more information about Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., visit www.schwartzinvest.com. Request a prospectus, which includes investment objectives, risks, fees, expenses and other information that you should read and consider carefully before investing. The prospectus can be obtained by calling 1-866-283-6274 or it can be viewed at www.avemariafunds.com. Distributed by Ultimus Fund Distributors LLC. 9328572-UFD-12/30/2019
PLYMOUTH, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ave Maria Mutual Funds announced today that Lila Rose has joined its Catholic Advisory Board. Lila is a human rights activist, speaker, writer, and podcast host. She founded and serves as president of Live Action, a media and news nonprofit dedicated to ending abortion and inspiring a culture that respects all human life. Live Action’s groundbreaking news coverage and compelling videos reach several million people every week. The Catholic Advisory Board of Ave Maria Mutual Funds is composed of prominent Catholics who provide religious guidance in accordance with teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. “We are blessed to have such a powerful voice in the pro-life movement join the Catholic Advisory Board,” said Paul Roney, Chairman of the Catholic Advisory Board. “The Board meets regularly with the investment adviser, Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., to review the Funds’ religious standards and criteria, and Lila Rose’s energy and passion make her a great addition.” George P. Schwartz, CFA, Chairman and CEO of the investment adviser added, “Lila Rose is a rising superstar among pro-life advocates and has dedicated her life to ending abortion. She provides a fresh perspective and her willingness to serve will greatly benefit our 100,000+ investors in the Ave Maria Mutual Funds.” Lila is the host of the “The Lila Rose Show,” a podcast that tackles faith, relationships, culture and politics. Her media appearances are numerous and include Fox News’ Hannity, Tucker Carlson Tonight, and The Story with Martha MacCallum; CNN, BBC, and many other national television and radio programs. Lila’s investigative reporting on the abortion industry has been featured in many major news outlets, including the Atlantic, the Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, CBS and ABC Nightline. Lila has written for the Hill, Politico, USA Today, and First Things, among others. Lila also speaks internationally on faith, family and cultural issues, and has addressed members of the European Parliament and the United Nation’s Commission on the Status of Women. She has been named among National Journal’s “25 Most Influential Washington Women Under 35,” and Christianity Today’s “33 under Thirty-Three.” REQUIRED DISCLOSURES About Ave Maria Mutual Funds Ave Maria Mutual Funds is the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S with $2.4 billion in assets. The five no-load funds invest in companies that do not violate core values and teachings of the Catholic Church. The two largest funds are the $915 million Ave Maria Rising Dividend Fund (Ticker: AVEDX) and $784 million Ave Maria Growth Fund (Ticker: AVEGX). For more information about Ave Maria Mutual Funds, call 1-866-AVE-MARIA (866-283-6274) or visit www.avemariafunds.com. About Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Founded in 1980, the Firm is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan with a branch office in Ave Maria, Florida. In managing the Ave Maria Mutual Funds, investments are made only if companies meet the Funds’ financial and moral criteria. As such, returns may be lower or higher than if decisions were based solely on investment considerations. The Funds’ method of security selection may or may not be successful and the Funds may underperform or outperform the stock market as a whole. All mutual funds are subject to market risk, including possible loss of principal. For more information about Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., visit www.schwartzinvest.com. Request a prospectus, which includes investment objectives, risks, fees, expenses and other information that you should read and consider carefully before investing. The prospectus can be obtained by calling 1-866-283-6274 or it can be viewed at www.avemariafunds.com. Distributed by Ultimus Fund Distributors LLC. 9082231-UFD-10/21/2019
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