2 Meridian Growth Fund (MERDX) This is a relatively small fund with just $2.5 billion invested in small- and mid-sized companies. MERDX invests primarily in a diversified portfolio of dividend-paying stocks focusing on long-term growth of capital along with income as a component of total return. MERDX, located in Marin County, California, was managed by Richard Aster from 1984 until he passed away this February. Lopez says Aster didn’t make many trades, noting that MERDX has provided good long-term performance overall. He adds that in high-performing market cycles, MERDX may earn less than sector leaders, but when the bear appears, it suffers less than more aggressive funds. Lopez says, “I put high value on steady growth that is consistent, as you can utilize a fund such as this as a foundation of your investment portfolio.
One-year return: 13.50%
Three-year return: 17.93%
Five-year return: 6.55%
Minimum initial investment: $1,000
Fee: 0.81%
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