Issue 3, 2014

The June 2014 issue of the Nordic Fund Selection Journal explores several key developments and insights in the Nordic asset management industry, with a focus on Norway and European investment opportunities. The issue highlights increased activity from international fund groups in Norway as the market grows, driven partly by new pension products and regulatory changes. Regulatory debates, including Sweden’s consideration of a total ban on commissions for financial advice under MiFID II, are detailed with industry voices expressing concerns about transparency, competition, and client protection. Fund mergers, management reshuffles, and acquisitions such as Willis’s purchase of Max Matthiessen are also covered, underlining ongoing industry consolidation and strategic shifts. A fixed income roundtable in Oslo and interviews with leading asset managers deepen the analysis of credit markets, risks, and investment strategies in a low-yield environment.

In Europe, the journal examines the uneven recovery following financial crises and emphasizes structural challenges such as modest GDP growth, sovereign debt pressures, and disinflation concerns. Thematic insights by equity and fixed income managers highlight cautious optimism around growth sectors and credit risk, while emphasizing the importance of diversification and active management amid tight spreads and valuation disparities. Profiles of Nordic fund selectors and investment experts discuss evolving client demands, the rise of solutions-based products, and the significance of long-term value investing approaches. The issue also previews FundForum International 2014 in Monaco, detailing Nordic participation and thematic sessions, and introduces FBNW, a Nordic-focused digital service tracking industry trends. Overall, the issue combines market analysis, regulatory updates, and strategic perspectives tailored to professionals navigating the Nordic and European fund management landscape.

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Table of content

Issue Overview and Editorial

Introduction to the June 2014 issue covering topics such as opportunities in Norway, the value of a global fund platform, changes in transparency, fixed income roundtable, industry interviews, and award winners.

News and Regulatory Updates

Debate in Sweden on banning commissions under MiFID II, regulatory perspectives from the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority, plans for implementation timelines, industry views on transparency and distribution commission bans, and ongoing fund mergers in the Nordic region.

Industry Moves and Company Developments

Leadership changes including new CEO appointments, acquisitions such as Willis acquiring Max Matthiessen, and strategic reshuffles at companies like ODIN and SKAGEN to align with new strategies and growth ambitions.

Fixed Income Roundtable Summary

Insights from Norwegian investors and fund selectors focusing on current market conditions, yield environment, risk allocation, liquidity concerns, credit market dynamics, and strategies for managing credit and bond portfolios.

Country Focus: Norway

An in-depth look at Norway’s asset management market, including economic context, regulatory environment, the growth of fund companies, investor behaviors, and interviews with key industry figures highlighting development opportunities and challenges.

Strategy Interview: SEB Wealth Management Global Fund Platform

Discussion with Elisabeth Sterner on SEB’s centralized global fund platform strategy, balancing internal and external funds, the impact of regulatory changes, product development pillars, and adaptability to future market and regulatory environments.

Investing in Europe

Market analysis addressing the economic outlook, corporate activity, and risks in Europe; interviews with equity and fixed income managers; investor perspectives; and thematic investment opportunities emphasizing value strategies and fixed income management risks and rewards.

International Selector Profile

Interview with Charles Hepworth from GAM on their multi-asset model portfolio service, including investment philosophy, manager selection process, product features, and adaptability to changing market and regulatory conditions.

Lipper Fund Awards Nordics 2014

Recognition of top-performing funds and fund groups in the Nordic region, featuring commentary from award-winning firms Franklin Templeton Investments and Jyske Invest on their strategies, market trends, and client demands.

Industry Travelers Insights

Comments from Nordic-based industry representatives Nina Movin (Threadneedle) and Mark Oestergaard (Neuberger Berman) on regional markets, client interests, trends affecting asset management, and personal preferences in engagement and hospitality.

FBNW – Nordic Asset Management Industry News Service

Introduction to FBNW, a subscription-based digital service offering real-time news, reports, databases, and networking opportunities focused on the Nordic asset management industry to help professionals anticipate trends and plan strategically.

Out of the Office: Lifestyle and Wine Recommendations

Summer suggestions for rosé and other wines, insights on Chablis wines for different occasions, and highlights of special whisky releases to enjoy for work-life balance and networking settings.

FundForum International 2014 Preview

Details on the premier global asset management event in Monaco, including the agenda highlights, Nordic panel discussions, networking opportunities such as Nordic Night, and coverage plans as Official Trend Partner by FBNW and Tell Media Group.

Upcoming Events and Issue Themes

Schedule and description of forthcoming industry events including investment roundtables in Stockholm and Helsinki, Nordic Fund Selection Awards, and planned editorial focuses for future Nordic Fund Selection Journal issues.