MSCI Barra says that it plans to consult with the investment community about whether income trusts should be part of the MSCI Canada universe, and, if so, to what extent.

Currently, MSCI does not include income trusts in its MSCI Canada universe of eligible securities. However, it explains that to ensure that it fully appreciates the scope and implications of this rapidly growing market segment in Canada, MSCI is seeking feedback on a variety of issues, including: foreign ownership restrictions on trusts; proposed limitations for pension funds in business trusts; liability issues; and, tax and investment issues faced by international equity investors.

MSCI says that it plans to contact some market participants to solicit feedback. The consultation may or may not lead to the inclusion of income trusts in the MSCI Canada universe, it says.