Mercer launches global asset class research boutiques

Mercer is adding depth to its research resource with the creation of global asset class research boutiques within its investment consulting business.

Integral to Mercer's long-existing global manager research structure, the new boutiques will primarily serve larger funds that require detailed knowledge for their complex strategies. Initially covering equity, bond, fixed income, alternative assets, and real estate, the new structure not only will serve Mercer's client base but will also facilitate investment in infrastructure and manpower. Staff numbers in the areas of real estate and alternative assets are expected to more than double with this addition to the company’s research resource.

"As a firm, we already have a significant advantage in our existing global structure and extensive resources. By creating our own specialist teams we are taking our global manager research to the next level and will be able to compete with specialist boutiques, as well as provide our larger clients with a more comprehensive service. In time, we intend to become the pre-eminent global research engine not only in equities and bonds but also in a number of asset classes in the alternatives space," said global head of Mercer's investment consulting business Andrew Kirton.

Andy Barber, Mercer’s global head of manager research, said, "We are not losing sight of the fact that the vast majority of our clients want detailed expert advice on all asset classes. This move will add to the existing research resource across Mercer and thus serve all our clients."

Mercer, a wholly owned subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc., provides investment consulting and multi-manager investment management to its clients in more than 40 countries.