Small is beautiful

After years of entrusting their money to large organisations, investors are finally seeing the appeal of the more 'intimate' investment firm

There was a time when big was beautiful in the investment world. Investors flocked to entrust their money with large organisations which radiated solidity, strength and, above all, size. But in recent years this historically efficacious selling point has become something of an Achilles heel for many groups, as investors and advisers increasingly shun the regimented processes and rigid structures associated with larger fund houses in favour of more flexible, nimble and unconstrained fund management companies. Boutiques have grown in popularity because the needs of investors - and fund ma...