Morningstar: playing chess with thematic funds rarely leads to profit
Thematic funds have grown significantly in size, number, and prominence globally over the past five years. Despite recent underperformance, these funds seem to maintain a lasting role in investors’ portfolios. Higher costs, greater volatility, and the slim odds of success do not deter investors from chasing popular investment trends.
Belfius AM considers a return to defence stocks
The war between Russia and Ukraine is prompting European asset managers to reconsider defence stocks, partly at the urging of their clients.
Transfers: HSF, Simpson Thacher set up shop in Luxembourg
International law firms Herbert Smith Freehills and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett have announced plans to establish offices in Luxembourg, aiming to strengthen their presence in the private capital sector.
Sandro Pierri: Good old days in asset management are over
BNP Paribas CEO and Efama president Sandro Pierri stresses that fiduciary duty remains central for European asset managers as the sector grapples with structural challenges, capital outflows, and transformative changes.
Luxembourg: Living parallel lives
Gregory Kennedy reflects on Luxembourg’s unique identity, its state-driven economy, reliance on cross-border workers, and finance-dominated private sector. Is Luxembourg a “real” country?
Defense stocks shield Europe against market malaise
The gap between the US and European stock markets has rarely been so wide. This week, the escalation in Ukraine has driven the markets even further apart. One sector, ironically enough, is bravely holding its ground: defense. For investors looking to invest in this sector, there still seems to be ample opportunity, though many grapple with ethical dilemmas.
Esma chief still sees merit in basic and simple investment product
The chair of the European Securities and Markets Authority (Esma), Verena Ross, still believes that a ‘basic and simple’ investment product could help convince more European savers to start investing.
UCI tax: Ghent court provides relief for Luxembourg funds
The Belgian UCI tax on Luxembourg funds remains a longstanding point of contention between the two countries. However, a recent ruling by the Ghent Court of Appeal has delivered significant legal and tax advantages for Luxembourg Sicavs.
Province of Luxembourg: a promising field for private bankers
No less than four of the five wealthiest municipalities in Belgium are located in the Province of Luxembourg, which borders the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. This Belgian province—particularly its border areas—has been identified as an attractive growth market by private bankers and wealth advisors.
Asset owners see tech reducing dependence on managers
Disruptive technology is shaping nearly every aspect of the global asset management industry, from growth and competition to innovation and acquisitions, according to PWC’s Asset and Wealth Management Survey 2024.