Esma faces uphill battle to emerge as European SEC
In an interview with Investment Officer, Esma chair Verena Ross outlined her vision and the significant challenges ahead as the regulatory body aims to become Europe’s equivalent to the US SEC.
Eltif market enters new phase as domestic momentum builds
The European Long-Term Investment Fund (Eltif) regime is entering a new phase, driven by a surge in local fund launches and rising domestic demand across Europe.
Chart of the week: stuck in fixed income
“The total value of Dutch securities holdings reached nearly 3,500 billion euros in 2024.” It’s one of those headlines—this one from the Dutch Central Bank (DNB)—that most investors overlook, let alone actually read. But behind that enormous figure lies a world that once again shows how deeply entrenched the traditional investment industry remains in an outdated mantra.
Quintet extends profit streak, to announce new Chair soon
Quintet reports higher profits, but income falls and growth remains unclear. Efficiency gains drive results as key questions go unanswered.
Investors await ‘Liberation Day’: Selling US stocks now is ‘unwise’
US equities have calmed after a turbulent start to the year, but the mood is far from euphoric. With President Trump’s so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs set to be announced on Sunday, it remains uncertain whether the recent gains mark the beginning of a recovery or simply a pause before the next downturn.
Morningstar: Robeco vs Van Lanschot Kempen
This week, we are comparing two asset managers rather than individual funds. When analysts evaluate a fund, they assess and assign ratings to its People and Process pillars while the methodology for Morningstar Medalist Ratings also incorporates and assessment of the Parent pillar. This Parent pillar is our focus this week.
Defense stocks struggle to keep up with the expectations treadmill
The German Bundestag’s decision to boost defense spending through debt issuance triggered a correction in European defense stocks. Investors are taking profits on high valuations as questions arise about whether they are still justifiable.
Supervisory gaps threaten cross-border access to private markets
ESMA has asked the European Commission to clarify Eltif 2.0 implementation rules, as inconsistent supervision across member states risks delaying investor access to semi-liquid private market funds.
Fannie Wurtz (Amundi): ‘Appetite for European stocks has increased significantly’
Fannie Wurtz from Amundi Asset Management, notes that a striking number of Asian investors are channeling their savings into European funds. The French executive is also optimistic about the sector’s long-term prospects. “Several megatrends are driving the European market.”
Analysts surprised by European bank rally
European banks are in solid financial shape, and interest income is exceeding expectations. Still, bank analysts are raising eyebrows at the sector’s sharp rally.