Liontrust chief warns asset managers of threat from distributors

John Ions, chief executive of Liontrust, has warned asset managers they face a threat from the growing power of distributors as the RDR approaches.

Ions (pictured), who became chief executive of Liontrust in 2010, said in a company update to the market that distribution networks were once again becoming powerful as their control over fund flows increased. "The changes brought on by RDR should not be underestimated. There may be much focus on price and consumer outcomes but it has also clearly identified that distribution power is now vital," he said. "An even greater amount of fund flows will be controlled by fewer more powerful distributors." Some platforms are understood to be looking to focus on their distribution capabilit...