Eltif 2.0, outsourcing, and tax in focus
This autumn, regulators tightened rules in three parts of the European fund sector: the Eltif 2.0 rules, outsourcing of portfolio management by Luxembourg funds, and the evolving rules for tax transparency in the Netherlands.
Investors aim for greater sustainability in private markets
Institutional investors worldwide are accelerating their shift towards sustainable private markets, according to three studies conducted by L&G, Schroders, and Montana Capital Partners. They are increasing allocations to ESG-focused sectors such as renewable energy, healthcare, and infrastructure.
ING to transfer 18,000 retail clients to BGL BNP Paribas
ING Luxembourg is transferring approximately 18,000 retail clients with basic daily banking needs to BGL BNP Paribas.
CSSF embraces Luxembourg-based AI cloud in digital push
Luxembourg financial regulator the CSSF has started identifying pilot projects to explore artificial intelligence applications based on a new Luxembourg-based cloud computing platform incorporating Google services. The move is seen in part as a way to cope with a long-standing difficulty in recruiting sufficient qualified staff.
Chart of the week: fade the trade
Financial journalists and market experts have a new gimmick: the “Trump trade”. With another four years of the Trump show ahead, we might derive all sorts of investment ideas from the yet-to-be-implemented policies. But I have my doubts about most of these trades—not only whether they will yield good returns, but also whether they even exist in the first place.
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?