Sub-advisory - Back for good?

Indicators point to another increase in sub-advisory activity

Sub-advisory, like many of the aspects of our industry, has had its periods of growth and periods of stability, even stagnation, over the past 20 years. However, it feels like we are in the middle of another significant increase in sub-advisory activity - with a difference this time: it is partnership and customised client solutions rather than product and pricing that is driving this growth phase.

Many of the conditions that led to the last rise in sub-advisory activity back in the middle of the last decade are once again in place today. We are seeing an increase in regulations such as MiFID II; greater transparency in fees and pricing and therefore in what is or is not perceived as valuable.  An increasingly competitive environment is driving wealth managers to look at ways in which they can develop differentiated propositions and expand their customer base.  Embracing unique, customised offerings and moving away from the ‘me-too' funds and managers - which, on the surface at lea...