Sanlam Investments Named Top Performer in Global Bonds

Head of Absolute Return at Sanlam Investments’, Fernando Durrell, has been named Best Portfolio Manager in Bonds: Global at the 2025 Citywire South Africa Fund Manager Awards, recognising his exceptional performance and consistent delivery for investors.

Additionally, Sanlam Investments was recently awarded Citywire’s Best Group Award for Global Bonds. This category acknowledges asset management houses that have demonstrated depth and consistency across their fixed-income capabilities over the seven years to July 2025. The recognition affirms the strength of the firm’s global bond team and its ability to deliver resilient outcomes across market cycles.

Citywire’s actuarially approved ratings methodology evaluates each business and portfolio manager’s complete track record across eligible funds over the three years to 31 July 2025. This rigorous, sector-by-sector assessment rewards genuine investment skill and consistency, distinguishing long-term excellence over short-term fluctuations.

Durrell’s award recognises his ability to navigate shifting global fixed-income conditions while maintaining a disciplined focus on risk management and sustained outperformance. The distinction reflects the high-conviction, research-driven investment philosophy that anchors Sanlam Investments’ approach to managing global bond mandates.

“We’ve navigated an environment defined by shifting rate cycles, geopolitical uncertainty and rapid repricing. Through it all, our priority has remained the same: to deliver resilient, risk-adjusted returns for clients. This award reflects the value of staying grounded in fundamentals and maintaining a long-term lens when markets become noisy,” says Durrell.

Citywire SA congratulated all winners and nominees, whose achievements highlight the depth and resilience of South Africa’s asset management industry.