Adam Laird, former head of ETF strategy for northern Europe at Lyxor and
ex-chairman of the ETF committee
at the Investment Association, has launched an asset management consolidator business.
Ards Ventures will invest and grow fund management firms with a particular focus on boutique managers.
While there has been a number of high profile asset management deals over the last few years, there still remain opportunities in the boutique manager space.
As a new entrant, Ards Ventures has a freedom to pursue deals across the asset management space.
Laird (pictured) joined Lyxor in 2016 from Hargreaves Lansdown where he spent eight years, most recently as head of passive investments.
Laird commented: “Boutique asset managers are the buried treasure of the investment landscape – nimble innovative businesses with excellent potential for growth. But while consolidation is working in wealth and advice, asset managers have been overlooked.
“Our remit is broad but with a preference for established active fund houses. The market is changing: these firms contend with stiff competition from large rivals, the growth of passive and the post-COVID regime. We can help businesses thrive among this disruption.
“We have already spoken to a number of founders and we are looking for more. These owners need help adapting and growing, they want a partner who will preserve their culture and they need a fair deal. That is why we are here – to give them options.”
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