Skagen enters UK market with fund range

Norwegian fund manager Skagen has entered the UK wholesale market with the launch of its equity and fixed income funds on the Transact platform.

The firm has unveiled its Global, Kon-Tiki, Vekst and Tellus funds on the wrap platform, which invest in global equities, global emerging markets equities, Norwegian equities and global government bonds.

The Global fund invests in undervalued, under-researched and unloved companies in industries around the world, while Kon-Tiki, which has the same investment mandate, ensures at least half of the assets are invested in companies in global emerging markets.

The launch marks the first stage in Skagen’s plan to increase its presence in the UK wholesale market, having already established an institutional base managing £1 billion of assets for around 50 clients.

Tim Gordon, head of client relations at Skagen funds, said: ‘Our entry into the UK wholesale market reflects the key strategic role of the advisory and wealth management channel as we continue to grow and diversify our UK client base.

‘We will look to work closely with a small number of select distributors to build long-term, stable partnerships and provide the best level of service for their clients.’

Skagen bolstered its presence in the UK discretionary market in 2011 with the appointment of Gordon, who was tasked with building up business on platforms and among advisers.