Threadneedle Investments will rebrand its business as Columbia Threadneedle Investments in the first half of 2015, as a result of its consolidation with US-based affiliate Columbia Management.
Both Columbia and Threadneedle are owned by US financial services firm Ameriprise Financial and together form the 30th largest global asset management group, with £316bn in assets under management.
The manager stated that the new brand is aimed at reinforcing the strength of both firms in established markets of the UK, Europe and the US, while enabling a growing presence in Asia Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East.
It noted that established investment teams, strategies and processes in place at both firms will not change, nor will Threadneedle’s existing funds or client portfolios and mandates. There will be no change to the corporate structure or regulated entities as a result of the new brand.
Campbell Fleming, chief executive of Threadneedle, said that presenting the “combined capabilities” of both firms under a single brand is the natural next step for both firms.
“Under the new brand we become a global group, presenting our combined resources, investment perspectives and expertise to better serve our clients, both individuals and institutions, around the world.”
Mark Burgess, chief investment officer at Threadneedle, added that over recent years the firm has deliberately fostered an environment of information sharing and debate between Columbia and Threadneedle, which has given portfolio managers a stronger global research platform.
“Our investment teams remain true to their respective styles and processes, however the sharing of research globally allows us to make better use of our investment ideas and talent, enhancing the ‘Perspective Advantage’ that is core to Threadneedle’s investment philosophy.”
The new brand will be introduced in the first half of this year, coinciding with Threadneedle’s move to a new London head office at Cannon Place.
The group is the 30th largest global asset manager and Threadneedle is now the fifth largest retail manager in the UK.
peter.walker@ft.com
