Managed futures returns mixed in 2016



Managed futures delivered disappointing results in terms of net returns over the 12 months ending 31 October 2016, according to Zenith Investment Partners' sector review.
The study also showed that the returns across the global macro/absolute return peer group were stronger.
However, according to Zenith head of alternatives research, Rodney Sebire, both groups struggled to "extract meaningful returns from traditional asset classes", at a time when equity markets provided a challenging environment with a few ‘bouts of euphoria' which were offset by episodes of extreme risk aversion.
Throughout the year, global equity markets were down approximately 5.7 per cent and the return pattern remained volatile and heavily sentiment driven.
"Managed futures produced a disappointing year in terms of net returns, with Zenith's rated managers producing an average return of -3.2 per cent for the 12 months ending 31 October 2016," Sebire said.
"In terms of the global macro peer group, performance was stronger with an average return of 3.5 per cent over the same period."
Zenith also stressed that with RG 97 on the disclosure of fees and costs in product disclosure statements (PDSs) and period statements coming into effect in February, the disclosure requirements for managed investment schemes were about to increase, which would add further intensity to the fee debate in coming months.
Recommended for you
First Sentier Investors chief executive, Mark Steinberg, is set to depart the asset manager after seven years.
Metrics Credit Partners has completed the acquisition of Taurus Finance Group and BC Investment Group as it looks to launch consumer lending arm Navalo.
AMP has announced to the ASX that it is being sued by property fund manager Dexus regarding the sale of its real estate and domestic infrastructure equity business.
Having seen inflows of US$5.6 billion to its fixed income funds in the last quarter, Janus Henderson has closed on a deal with life insurer Guardian to secure funds to boost its product development.