Asset Management is a Human Business

Apiramy was interviewed by Will Robins at Citywire Selector recently – watch the full interview here: Citywire Selector | 'We're a human-to-human business, AI won't change that'

In an industry increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and digital innovation, one principle endures: asset management is fundamentally a human business.

At Nedgroup Investments, this philosophy is reflected not only in our approach but in our results.

In 2022, the fixed income landscape changed dramatically for investors. The era of ultra-low interest rates and reliance on credit-heavy strategies came to an abrupt end. But with this shift came opportunity - investors could once again find yield across the risk spectrum, bringing renewed demand for core bond strategies.

Recognising this need, Nedgroup Investments brought two of the industry’s most trusted names – David Roberts and Alex Ralph – out of retirement to launch the Nedgroup Investments Global Strategic Bond Fund (GSB) and establish an in-house fixed income boutique (Palomar Fixed Income). Within 12 months, the fund reached US$100m, was onboard by 12 platforms and expanded into Channel Islands, Ireland and Switzerland, building a diversified sticky investor base.

We met with more than 750 investors through a combination of direct meetings and hosting and participating 26 focused events, reinforcing our commitment to human-human interactions and authentic client dialogue.

Our client base continues to grow, supported by a diverse product suite. The Nedgroup Investments Contrarian Value Equity Fund is a standout performer, consistently ranking in the top quartile over 10 years and delivering strong long-term returns. These achievements underscore our ability to combine strategic distribution with high-quality investment management.

Technology Enhances, Not Replaces

While digital tools have become integral to our workflows—virtual meetings, algorithmic insights, and AI-assisted processes—the most meaningful engagements still happen person-to-person. Clients seek more than data. They value interpretation, context, and guidance—qualities that only experienced professionals can deliver.

Trust Is Built Through People

Trust is earned through consistency, transparency, and shared values. In asset management, this means understanding client objectives, adapting to evolving needs, and being present—both digitally and in person—when it matters most.

Authenticity is key. Clients want to engage with professionals who listen, challenge assumptions, and offer diverse perspectives. In today’s environment, they are also looking for a safe pair of hands—partners who can help them navigate volatility with confidence and clarity.

Collaborative Solutions in Uncertain Times

Increasingly, clients expect more than transactional service. They want collaborative problem-solving and tailored solutions that reflect their unique goals and constraints. This requires not only technical expertise but also empathy, agility, and a deep understanding of the broader context in which decisions are made.

Diversity of thought and experience is essential. It brings fresh perspectives, mitigates blind spots, and fosters innovation. At Nedgroup, we actively cultivate diverse teams and inclusive dialogue to better serve our clients and strengthen decision-making.

A Hybrid Future

The future of asset management is not a binary choice between AI and human expertise—it’s a hybrid model. Success will come to firms that integrate technological sophistication with human empathy.

At Nedgroup, we are investing in both. Our platforms empower teams to deliver better outcomes, while our culture prioritises relationships that endure.

Ultimately, asset management is about people. It’s about understanding aspirations, navigating uncertainty, and delivering value beyond performance metrics. AI will evolve, but the core of our industry will remain human.

Disclaimer: 

This is a marketing communication. Please refer to the prospectus, the key investor information documents (the KIIDs/PRIIPS KIDs) and the financial statements of Nedgroup Investments Funds plc (the Fund) before making any final investment decisions.

The documents applicable to the Fund are available from Nedgroup Investments (IOM) Ltd (the Investment Manager) or via the website: www.nedgroupinvestments.com.

This document is intended for information purposes only, it is not intended for distribution to any person or entity who is a citizen or resident of any country or other jurisdiction where such distribution, publication or use would be contrary to law or regulation. The views expressed herein are those of the Investment Manager / Sub-Investment Manager at the time and are subject to change, and whilst all reasonable steps were taken to ensure that this document is accurate and current at the time of publication, we shall accept no responsibility or liability for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions relating to the information and topics covered in this document.

The Fund is domiciled in Ireland, authorised and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. The Fund is a UCITS pursuant to the European Communities (Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities) Regulations 2011 as amended. Nedgroup Investment (IOM) Limited (reg no 57917C), the Investment Manager and Distributor of the Fund, is licensed by the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority. The Depositary of the Fund is Citi Depositary Services Ireland DAC, 1 North Wall Quay, Dublin 1, Ireland. The Administrator of the Fund is Citibank Europe plc, 1 North Wall Quay, Dublin 1, Ireland.

The sub-funds of the Fund (the Sub-Funds) are generally medium to long-term investments and the Investment Manager does not guarantee the performance of an investor's investment and even if forecasts about the expected future performance are included the investor will carry the investment and market risk, which includes the possibility of losing capital.

The price of shares may go down or up depending on fluctuations in financial markets outside of the control of the Investment Manager meaning an investor may not get back the amount invested. Past performance is not indicative of future performance and does not predict future returns. Risks and fees are outlined in the relevant Sub-Fund supplement.

Prices are published on the Investment Manager’s website.

Distribution: The Investment Manager may decide to terminate the arrangements made for the marketing of its collective investment undertakings in accordance with Art 93a of Directive 2009/65/EC and Art 32a of Directive 2011/61/EU.

Switzerland: The Representative is Acolin Fund Services AG, Maintower, Thurgauerstrasse 36/38, 8050 Zurich, whilst the Paying agent is Banque Heritage SA, Route de Chêne 61, CH-1211 Geneva 6. Nedgroup Investments (IOM) Limited is affiliated to the Swiss ombudsman: Verein Ombudsstelle Finanzdienstleister (OFD), Bleicherweg 10, CH-8002 Zurich.

U.K: Nedgroup Investments (UK) Limited (reg no 2627187), authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, is the facilities agent. The Fund and certain of its sub-funds are recognised in accordance with Section 264 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.

Isle of Man: The Fund has been recognised under para 1 sch 4 of the Collective Investments Schemes Act 2008 of the Isle of Man. Isle of Man investors are not protected by statutory compensation arrangements in respect of the Fund.