FASA 2024
Discretionary Fund Manager

Discretionary Fund Manager

Amid geopolitical uncertainty and regulatory challenges, advisers have continued to place client money with discretionary managed funds, outsourcing the investment management element while retaining the planning relationship.

At times like these, the role of a DFM and their relationship with financial advisers is more important than ever, and the role of a DFM goes beyond simply constructing a well-balanced portfolio.

Moreover, the DFM market itself is seeing new entrants as well as merger and acquisition activity, making it more important than ever to deliver top-notch service to clients and intermediaries.

Judging by the scores this year, it appears many DFMs have indeed been working to improve their service levels to advisers and clients, with more providers getting five and four-stars in 2024 than they did in 2023.

Advisers scored the 106 DFM providers listed in the Coredata survey sent out in June across several different business servicing aspects.

For example, they ranked companies based on things such as the accessibility and regular contact with providers, new business handling, technical and product support provided by the company and dealing with queries.

One of the five-star winners this year is YOU Asset Management, part of the Finli Group.

According to a spokesperson from YOU Asset Management, the firm “believes in building long-lasting relationships based on trust and integrity, striving to enhance the overall investment experience for all clients”.

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