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Active ETFs gain popularity among fund selectors

More than two thirds of fund selectors see active fund management as key to outperforming in the current year, a reflection of its growing importance in uncertain markets, the latest Natixis 2024 Fund Selector Outlook Survey shows.

The survey uncovered a strategic pivot among wealth managers, who over the past decade have largely favoured passively managed index funds. However, 45% of fund selectors attribute the outperformance of passive investments to a decade of artificially low interest rates and minimal inflation, conditions that are changing. 

Amundi boosts private markets presence with Alpha Associates

Amundi, Europe’s biggest asset manager, on Wednesday confirmed that it has agreed to acquire Alpha Associates, a Swiss-based specialist firm in private equity, private debt and infrastructure investments, boosting its presence in the European private markets sector. Financial details were not disclosed.

The law of increasing excess returns

The landscape of the technology industry has been dramatically reshaped since the onset of the coronavirus crisis, with big tech companies witnessing their operating profit margins leap from 24 to 29 percent. In stark contrast, other companies have seen a decline of two percentage points in the same period. This trend, far from fostering competition, is solidifying a ‘winner-takes-all’ economy.

‘Outperformance of US equities difficult to maintain’

Experts from Schroders, Robeco, and Franklin Templeton advise maintaining a cautious stance on the valuation of US equities, highlighting that key interest rates are likely to decrease more slowly than market expectations.

Annually, Schroders, Franklin Templeton, and Robeco host their Investment Forum in Brussels. At this event, specialists from these three asset management firms shared their projections for the newly commenced financial year and offered insights on strategic portfolio positioning.

Pictet sees ‘tactical opportunity’ in stocks, Gilts

Pictet Asset Management has shifted its investment strategy, upgrading its allocations to global equities, UK government bonds, and information technology stocks. 

This move stems from the firm’s latest Barometer report and reflects confidence in the market despite the backdrop of falling interest rates. This change is driven by a notable slowdown in inflation and consistent economic growth observed at the start of 2024. 

Navigating greenwashing and regulatory shifts

A focus on sustainability, digital resilience, and regulatory compliance will significantly influence investment strategies and operations, demanding heightened vigilance and adaptability from global asset managers. As Investment Officer Knowledge Partners, Tom Loonen, Lous Vervuurt and Jan Saalfrank at Pinsent Masons review key developments in Luxembourg and Dutch fund matters.