Multi-asset funds are proving increasingly popular among investors looking to diversify away from bonds and boost income, claims M&G’s Jonathan Willcocks, while Europe is expected to become the next sub-advisory battleground

Fund distribution is changing. A number of “global gorillas” are expanding through acquisition to dominate the cross-border space while other banks look to dominate their domestic markets. But does this benefit investors?

The bulk of Principal Global Investors’ future growth will come from HNW individuals, says Nick Lyster who runs the US firm’s European operations, with private banks’ renewed appetite for sub-advisory partners a prime target

It is not always possible to carry out full in-depth due diligence on a portfolio manager, but it is essential that advisers go beyond merely screening past performance before recommending funds to clients

MFS has become one of the fastest growing asset managers, spreading out from its US heartlands into Europe and beyond. But its distribution chiefs admit more could be done to bolster the firm’s brand

Natixis is keen to expand away from its US and French heartlands, says distribution chief Matt Shafer, and hopes its multi-affiliate model will find favour in Asia and the UK

Amundi CEO Yves Perrier prides himself on having instilled a highly efficient culture at the French firm, but regrets missing out on the purchase of Pioneer’s funds arm

Emerging markets veteran Mark Mobius discusses uprisings, Sharia investments and what the future might hold for China