He added: “Axa Wealth International is committed to providing advisers and investors with investment flexibility and a choice of charging options.”
ArchitasArchitas delivering RDR-compatible range of funds
Architas has built a reputation for delivering straightforward and transparent RDR-ready investments since its launch four years ago, according to managing director Hans Georgeson.
Mr Georgeson said Architas’ core range of active, passive and blended risk-rated, income-generating and specialist funds continues to prove popular with advisers, in part due to their compatibility with RDR requirements.
He said: “Launching the new range of commission-free clean share classes last year demonstrated our commitment to support advisers’ journey in the RDR environment.
“This summer we also launched an innovative 0 per cent AMC option for the passive range. There is a 2 per cent up-front fee to Architas on the investment, but it has potential to deliver an ongoing saving for those who remain invested for more than four and a half years.”
Mr Georgeson said Architas focused solely on fund research and building investment solutions for clients, while fully understanding and adapting to the challenges advisers face.
He added: “In the post-RDR world advisers are increasingly conscious of the need to regularly engage with their clients.
“The launch of the Architas Marketing Store, which allows adviser firms to co-brand our entire range of client-facing material, is part of our effort to help advisers communicate clearly about their investments, the underlying performance of holdings and the general direction of financial markets.”
Mr Georgeson also added that Architas believes its diversified multi-manager proposition can add value to adviser businesses and provide solutions for a range of investment objectives.
He said: “Each fund in the Architas range has been designed to offer exposure to a diversified portfolio of leading fund managers.
“At every stage, our focus and aim is on delivering consistent returns while controlling risks, and most importantly, on meeting the needs and goals of our clients.”
MetLife EuropeInnovative wealth portfolios hit £1bn
Further innovation to MetLife’s managed wealth portfolios underlines its commitment to responding to customer demand and showing flexibility when developing innovative products.
According to MetLife’s managing director Dominic Grinstead, the managed wealth portfolios, run by asset managers BlackRock, have grown to more than £1bn.
This, Mr Grinstead said, demonstrated the need for solutions that address the ongoing risk from volatility and low stock market growth.
But for all its innovation, Mr Grinstead said new products must be backed by a “world-class service”, high on MetLife’s agenda.
He added: “Service is central to our long-term strategic ambitions in the UK and we apply the same rigorous service promise that we deliver in life and pensions.
“Having high standards means it is important to carry out regular quality checks and seek feedback from our customers, who are at the heart of everything we do. Our customers’ views are crucial and allow us to continually improve the service we provide.”
