Acadian

A clarified ownership structure supports Acadian's capabilities in providing good investment stewardship.

Effective Jan. 1, 2025, BrightSphere Investment Group was rebranded to Acadian Asset Management, transitioning from a multiboutique legacy structure to a singularly focused asset-management company. Following a string of divestments by BrightSphere through 2020 and 2021, Acadian was the only remaining operational entity, which until recently, put a question mark on the future of Acadian's business. However, the recent changes are a logical step in clarifying the corporate structure and streamlining operational focus. Additionally, Kelly Young, chief executive officer of Acadian Asset Management, was appointed as the company's president and chief executive officer.

Historically, Acadian has been a well-regarded asset manager with a quantitative approach to investing. Senior members at Acadian have had lengthy tenures at the firm and have established clear succession plans. Along with the changes in the ownership structure, the business has shown commitment by continuing to invest in building new capabilities, improving internal efficiency and launching new products by leveraging its core strengths.

Acadian has done well to attract assets over the past two years as the funds under management rose from USD 83.3 billion in September 2022 to USD 113.0 billion in June 2024. At the same time, Acadian has in the past closed strategies when reaching capacity, notably in smaller-cap vehicles.

Overall, we believe that Acadian is a good steward of capital with reliable investing practices and a cohesive long-term strategy based on recent developments.

Note: This share class' Parent Pillar rating is analyst-driven, as its Branding Name, Acadian (Branding Name ID: BN000007T3), is covered by Morningstar Manager Research.