MassMutual affiliates Babson Capital Management, Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers, Wood Creek Capital Management and Baring Asset Management are now fully integrated and operating as a unified company under the Barings name.
The Barings brand and logo have been refreshed in a move that aims to reflect a modern and forward-looking asset management firm committed to meeting the evolving investment and capital needs of clients.
"This merger marks an exciting moment in our history, and it enhances our ability to provide comprehensive, innovative solutions to help our clients meet their investment objectives," says Tom Finke, chairman and chief executive officer of Barings. "The new Barings possesses expanded depth and breadth of expertise across the global fixed income, equity, real estate and alternative asset markets. In addition, our integrated global footprint gives us a broader perspective, access to a more-diverse set of opportunities and strengthens our ability to invest across global markets."
With this integration, Barings becomes one of the world's largest and most diversified asset management organisations that has more than USD275 billion in client assets under management; over 1,700 employees in 41 offices across 17 countries; and over 600 investment professionals globally across a broad range of asset classes.
Within the newly created organisation, each investment area will have dedicated leadership. Russ Morrison will serve as the firm's president and lead global fixed income, equity and multi-asset strategies; Scott Brown will lead global real estate; and Anthony Sciacca will lead global alternative investments and private equity.
Roger Crandall (pictured), chairman, president and CEO, MassMutual, says: "We are extremely pleased to reach this important milestone, bringing together our world-class, institutional asset management affiliates into a unified global asset manager and broadening our offerings and commitment to clients around the world. Importantly, the launch of the 'new' Barings builds on the distinctive legacies of these four firms, represents an important strategic step forward that further differentiates us in the marketplace and positions our asset management operations to continue to succeed and lead in the years ahead."
