Issue 1, 2014

The February 2014 issue of the Nordic Fund Selection Journal provides a comprehensive overview of the Nordic asset management industry, focusing particularly on the evolving dynamics within Denmark and the broader region. Key themes include the institutionalization and professionalization of fund selection, evidenced by the establishment of a new Danish Fund & Manager Selection Network, and significant asset inflows and growth in the Danish fund market. The issue highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by Danish fund managers through interviews, illustrating active versus passive fund debates, regulatory scrutiny over "closet indexers," and the ongoing drive for performance and transparency in the face of fee pressure and market competition.

In addition, the journal explores investment insights from fund managers covering Nordic equities and fixed income, emphasizing strategies to navigate the current market environment marked by low interest rates and global economic uncertainty. Notable contributions include Fidelity's Nordic equity manager sharing a disciplined, risk-conscious approach, and Catella's flexible corporate bond strategy targeting Nordic credits with robust risk management. The publication also addresses broader industry trends such as growing fee pressures, consolidation, and the increasing importance of board governance, as well as showcasing international fund selection profiles and innovative office trend observations. Collectively, the content underscores a maturing Nordic asset management landscape characterized by increasing investor sophistication, regulatory evolution, and an enduring focus on delivering value through active management and effective fund selection.

The magazine is only available to subscribers

If you’re new to Tell Media Group, create an account first.

Table of content

Introduction to the Nordic Fund Selection Journal #01 February 2014

Overview of new industry sections, fund manager interviews, country focus on Denmark, conference invitations, and editorial insights into the Nordic asset management scene.

Industry Developments and Trends in the Nordic Region

Analysis of the Nordic asset management industry’s growth, record inflows, and regional distinctions including Swedbank’s fund relocation and emerging market trends.

Key News and Personnel Changes within Nordic Asset Management

Updates on leadership changes such as appointments at Monyx Financial Group, SKAGEN, Finnish Etera, and Folksam Fondförsäkring; also highlighting general industry news.

Guest Viewpoint: Investing in Demographics and Structural Growth

Exploration of demographic megatrends and their impact on investment opportunities, emphasizing long-term value creation through structural growth themes.

Country Focus: Denmark – Industry State and Investment Trends

In-depth look at Denmark’s economic strengths, fund market developments, institutional investor challenges, and emerging investment and selection networks.

Insights from Danish Fund Management Companies

Interviews summarizing Danish managers’ perspectives on active versus passive investing, market opportunities for 2014, challenges, and strategic priorities.

Institutional Investors in Denmark: Behavioral Drivers and Market Outlook

Presentation of findings from investor surveys discussing low interest rates, shifting asset allocations, alternatives, ESG concerns, and regulatory impacts.

Strategy Interview: Staffan Hansén on Asset Management Trends and Storebrand’s Vision

Discussion of seven long-term industry trends, focus on product offerings, Nordic market strategies, sustainability focus, and active versus passive market dynamics.

Investment Focus: Nordic Region – Equity and Fixed Income Strategies

Portfolio managers from Fidelity and Catella discuss Nordic equity and fixed income opportunities, risk management, sector views, and investment philosophies.

International Selection Profile: Ian Aylward, Aviva Investors

Overview of Aviva’s multi-manager selection process including the proprietary 7P method, active management philosophy, ESG integration, and team dynamics.

Active vs. Passive Management Debate in the Nordics

Coverage of the renewed scrutiny on active fund management performance, regulatory reactions, political concerns, and potential industry responses to closet indexing.

The Travellers: Nordic Market Insights from Industry Experts

Perspectives from client managers on fund selector trends, investor concerns, regulatory impact, and regional demand within the Nordic asset management landscape.

The Office: Emerging Trends in Work Environments

Exploration of office design and culture trends emphasizing collaboration, flexibility, wellbeing, and inspiration drawn from Silicon Valley’s tech industry workspaces.

Out of the Office: Wine and Spirits Insights

Wine expert commentary on Burgundy wines, wine trends, and spirits highlights including exclusive products, industry innovations, and wine pricing factors.

Events: Industry Conferences, Reviews, and Previews

Summary and outlook of significant Nordic and international asset management and fund selection events, including new year conferences and upcoming forums.

About the Nordic Fund Selection Journal and Upcoming Issues

Information on the publication, editorial contacts, subscription details, and planned coverage for subsequent issues focusing on emerging markets, regulation, Norway, Europe, and governance.