Nuveen's Top-Ranked Mid-Cap Blend Funds Garner Strong Buy Ratings in 2025

Nuveen, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America, manages $1.3 trillion in assets as of December 31, 2025. Established in 1898, Nuveen operates a multi-boutique structure through independent teams including Nuveen Asset Management, Winslow Capital, and Symphony, offering a diverse range of equity and fixed-income mutual funds that cover both domestic and foreign markets.

Among its offerings, three mid-cap blend mutual funds have distinguished themselves with a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 (Strong Buy) rating, indicating their potential to outperform peers. These funds include Nuveen Large Cap Value (TRLWX), Nuveen Quant Small Cap Equity (TCSEX), and Nuveen Core Equity Premier (TRPGX).

Nuveen Large Cap Value primarily invests in undervalued large-cap domestic and international equities aligned with the Russell 1000 Value Index, demonstrating a three-year annualized return of 8.9% and holding diversified assets including 4.3% in JPMorgan Chase as of January 2025. The fund focuses on identifying companies with potential undervaluation through fundamental analysis.

Nuveen Quant Small Cap Equity targets small-cap equities within the capitalization parameters set by the Russell 2000 Index, carrying a 3.8% three-year annualized return and an expense ratio of 0.71%. The fund uses quantitative methods to guide investment decisions and manage exposure to smaller market capitalizations.

Nuveen Core Equity Premier invests chiefly in large-cap securities selected for capital appreciation and dividend potential, with a three-year annualized return of 9.8%. Management of this fund includes Valerie Grant, who has held a fund manager position since November 2022. These funds represent strategic options within the mid-cap blend category for institutional and individual investors seeking balanced growth and income opportunities.

For insurance professionals, these insights on Nuveen's asset management and fund performance provide perspective on market trends, fund manager stewardship, and investment strategies. Understanding the specifics of fund compositions, returns, and rankings is critical for optimizing portfolio construction and aligning with regulatory compliance and fiduciary standards. The comprehensive performance data and Zacks rankings support informed decision-making in mutual fund selection relevant to pension funds and insurance investment portfolios.