Global investment manager MFS has stepped up its offerings to Italian retail investors.
It has signed a partnership agreement with Deutsche Bank in Italy that would allow the German bank’s network and financial advisers access to the MFS flagship vehicle, MFS Meridian Funds based in Luxembourg.
The deal follows the firm’s recent partnership with Italian bank CheBanca! which gives access to the same selection of funds.
Retail focus
International Adviser reached out to MFS to talk about its latest partnerships and offerings to the Italian retail market.
Andrea Baron, managing director, Italy for MFS Investment Management, told IA: “Growing our retail business outside of the US, and in particular across Europe, is a strategic priority for MFS.
“Italy is a key market for us given the solid relationship that financial consultants have built up with end investors, offering best in class solutions. Italian investors tend to be conservative in nature and our focus on quality and risk management means that our investment objectives are aligned with their preferences.
“The Italian market is also open to investing with foreign managers, especially as they look to diversify their portfolios.”
Looking to grow
The global investment manager which, as Massachusetts Investors Trust (MIT), claims to have invented the mutual fund 95 years ago, has been present in Italy for nearly 15 years and is now looking at growth opportunities.
Baron told IA: “MFS has a well-established foothold in the Italian market, offering investment strategies to Italian investors since 2005.
“Our focus has been to build a solid reputation with professional buyers, which has proved to be successful. However, if we are to realise our growth aspirations, we must deepen our relationships with retail clients.
“Creating partnerships with key financial consultant networks and their advisers is an important step for us. With a diverse range of high-quality strategies, a strong in-country sales team who are committed to creating value responsibly for clients, we are well placed to execute on our plans.”
