France-based Natixis Asset Management has said that it will own majority stake in the H2O Asset Management, to be launched by two fund managers Bruno Crastes and Vincent Chailley.
H2O Asset Management will be a London-based entrepreneurial venture built on the expertise of a team of investment professionals. It plans to start operating in the next few months.
The team will be led by Mr Crastes, who will become its CEO, and Mr Chailley will handle the responsibilities of CIO at the new firm. Both have close to 40 years of combined experience in global macro alternative management as well as in global fixed income, emerging bond and currency management.
The new company will leverage the support of the sales teams of Natixis Asset Management in France, and of Natixis Global Associates abroad. It will also rely upon the expertise of Natixis Asset Management corporate services (middle office, IT, reporting, risk control etc.)
Mr Crastes said: “We’re delighted to set up H2O Asset Management and to join an efficient multiboutique model that will enable us to serve the interests of our future clients more effectively around the world.”
Pascal Voisin, CEO of Natixis Asset Management, said: “This investment enables Natixis Asset Management to broaden its offering with additional areas of expertise, to partner with an experienced team that enjoys a recognized track record in the market, and to support its international growth strategy.”