Axa IM

Investors still face at least two years of uncertainty before a degree of normality returns to markets, according to Jim Stride, head of AXA IM's £13bn Distribution range.

SPECIAL REPORT

AXA Investment Managers has shut its £5.5m AXA Framlington Talents fund because of its small size while Charles Firmin-Didot, the creator of the Talents strategies, has left the group.

Andrew Wilmont, head of European high yield at AXA Investment Managers, has left the firm, handing his funds to James Gledhill.

Strategic bond managers are upping their use of derivatives as liquidity issues, dislocated pricing structures and cheaper trading opportunities transform how they manage their portfolios.

AXA IM is looking to launch a Universal Inflation Bond fund and an Emerging Market Short Duration fund this year as it extends its fixed income range.

The longest losing streak for 10-year US treasuries since 2006, coupled with a marked rise in other ‘safe haven' bond yields, poses some difficult questions for bond investors.

M&G tops both retail sales lists as investors seek out bond funds, while BlackRock's active and passive vehicles also prove popular.

AXA IM has hired Lyxor Asset Management CEO Laurent Seyer as its global head of investment solutions.

Nick Hayes has taken over management of the £135m AXA Sterling Corporate Bond fund from global head of fixed income Theodora Zemek.