Vontobel launches new multi-asset boutique

Multi-boutique group Vontobel Asset Management has created a new investment division which is focused on the multi-asset class.

The newly launched Balanced/Multi-Asset Class (MAC) boutique will be led by Christophe Bernard, who joins the firm from UBP where he held a similar position. He has also been named the group’s new chief strategist.

The Swiss group is combining its existing expertise in the areas of balanced and MAC to create a single unit which already has €8.3 billion of assets under management.

In his new role as chief strategist Bernard replaces Thomas Steinemann who has left the firm after 11 years.

Zeno Staub, CEO of the Vontobel Group, views the appointment of Christophe Bernard as a sign of the new reality in the finance industry, saying:

‘In periods of low returns, high volatility and strong correlations between markets, it is important to re-examine and realign traditional investment strategies.’

‘We want to move ahead intensively with this process in the coming months with the support of Christophe Bernard.’