Natixis Global Associates and Absolute Asia Asset Management have launched a multi-cap stock fund, the Absolute Asia Dynamic Equity Fund.
The fund invests in the Asian equity markets (excluding Japan) and offers an opportunity for investors to participate in Asian investments through a US ’40 Act mutual fund.
The fund is the first offered in the US by the Singapore-based management team, which has been headquartered in the region for over a decade. The team’s portfolio managers average more than 20 years of investment expertise.
"The economic vitality of the Asia Pacific region is quickly converting one of the world’s most diverse geographic locations into an international marketplace of large-scale commerce, investment and development that is capturing the interest of many investors," says Bill Sung, chief investment officer of Absolute Asia Asset Management and co-portfolio manager of the new fund. "Our strategic location directly in the heart of the Asia Pacific region gives us the distinct advantage of being close to the companies and business centres which are our focus."
The fund is available to investors through class A, C and Y shares. The total return fund seeks to maximise total return and is managed jointly by Sung and Joyce Toh.
The fund’s managers expect to invest at least 80 per cent of net assets in equity securities of 30 to 40 companies located or operating throughout Asia (excluding Japan). The minimum initial investment is USD2,500 for A and C shares and USD100,000 for Y shares.
"Within NGA’s umbrella of affiliates, we are fortunate to have an experienced portfolio manager that has international recognition," says John Hailer, president and chief executive officer of Natixis Global Asset Management, US and Asia, and head of NGA US and international distribution. "This multi-cap fund addresses the current needs of many US investors seeking global diversification. At the same time, it enhances an already robust suite of international offerings available through NGA."
