Asset managers merge to enhance future opportunities

Cape Town-based boutique investment managers Hermes Asset Management and Osborne Capital will merge their operations with effect from 1 October 2009. The combined entity will operate under the Hermes brand.

With respected professionals Arthur Karas and Philip Thompson from Hermes, and Niall Brown and Jan Kuiper from Osborne Capital working together under the same roof, Hermes now boasts a formidable team with one of the most impressive long-term track records in investment management.

“The new entity represents a meeting of the minds on philosophy and process and compounds the intellectual capital of two highly experienced and successful teams,” says Executive Chairman, Bill McAdam.

He adds: “The rationale is to increase critical mass, deepen research capability and broaden reach. The enlarged forum facilitates vigorous internal debate and idea generation which will enhance products and services, and boost long-term growth prospects.”

Established in 2004, Hermes manages unit trusts and segregated funds for institutions, pension funds and high net worth individuals. Osborne Capital has a complementary offering. The intention is to rationalise the existing four unit trusts into a total of three with Arthur Karas continuing to manage the Hermes Equity Fund, and Niall Brown remaining in charge of the Osborne Flexible Fund. Combined funds under management currently stand at R1.4 billion. Resumés of the investment team members are attached herewith.