DCU Desjardins Canadian Universe Bond Index ETF

MONTREAL, March 18, 2020 /CNW Telbec/ - Desjardins Global Asset Management Inc. (DGAM), acting as manager and portfolio advisor of the Desjardins Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), announces that all previously undistributed net realized capital gains and net income of Desjardins Canadian Universe Bond Index ETF (TSX: DCU) as of February 24, 2020, including such gains and income for the period December 31, 2019 to February 24, 2020, became payable to Unitholders as of February 24, 2020, except to the extent of net realized capital gains in respect of which the tax payable by DCU would be refunded as a "capital gains refund".  Accordingly, DGAM announces the following additional reinvested distributions of DCU.

Prior to February 24, 2020, DCU was considered a "financial institution" for purposes of the "mark-to-market" rules in the Income Tax Act (Canada), since (i) more than 50% of the fair market value of all interests in DCU were held by one or more such financial institutions and (ii) DCU did not qualify as a "mutual fund trust" for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada). It was determined that DCU qualifies as a "mutual fund trust" as of February 24, 2020 and ceased to be a "financial institution" as at such date for these purposes, therefore DCU was deemed to have taxation year-end immediately before that time.  As a result, Unitholders of record on February 24, 2020 became entitled to the reinvested distributions, which were payable on February 24, 2020. These distributions were not paid in cash and instead were automatically reinvested in additional units. Those additional units were immediately consolidated, so the number of units held by each investor, except in the case of a non-resident Unitholder to the extent tax was required to be withheld in respect of the distribution, did not change as a result of the distribution. In addition, the net asset value of the ETF did not change as a result of the distribution. Investors holding their units outside registered plans will have taxable amounts to report and an increase in the adjusted cost base of their units.

To obtain additional information about the Desjardins ETFs, visit the manager's website at www.desjardinsETF.com.

About Desjardins Group
Desjardins Group is the leading cooperative financial group in Canada and the fifth largest in the world, with assets of $313.0 billion. It has been rated one of Canada's Top 100 Employers by Mediacorp. To meet the diverse needs of its members and clients, Desjardins offers a full range of products and services to individuals and businesses through its extensive distribution network, online platforms and subsidiaries across Canada. Ranked among the World's Strongest Banks according to The Banker magazine, Desjardins has one of the highest capital ratios and credit ratings in the industry.

The Desjardins Exchange Traded Funds are not guaranteed, their value fluctuates frequently and their past performance is not indicative of their future returns. Commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with an investment in exchange traded funds. Please read the prospectus before investing. Desjardins Global Asset Management Inc. is the manager and portfolio manager of the Desjardins Exchange Traded Funds. The Desjardins Exchange Traded Funds are offered by registered dealers.

SOURCE Desjardins Group