Porter: Why I sold Thames River to F&C

BIG INTERVIEW

When activist investor Edward Bramson hunted down share after share to build himself a big enough stake to lead a boardroom revolt at F&C Investments 18 months ago, many in the City feared for the future of Thames River.

Bramson, founder of Sherborne Investors, had publicly criticised F&C’s purchase of Thames River when the deal was completed in September 2010. He voiced his disapproval over the price of the purchase and also raised concerns about the boutique’s exposure to performance fees. However, 18 months on and with half of Bramson’s strategic review of the business complete, it is clear Thames River is seen as a key component of his ambitious plans to turn around the asset manager. Charlie Porter, previously CEO at Thames River and now head of F&C Investments’ fund and investment trust business...