F&C's mutual funds break into Austrian market

F&C continues its European expansion by introducing its range of mutual funds into the Austrian market.

A total of 16 funds investing across different asset classes have now being registered for distribution in Austria.

With its origins dating back to 1868, F&C is one of Europe's oldest and largest asset managers. It currently manages a total of €150bn assets for clients across Europe, in particular the UK, the Netherlands, Portugal, Ireland, France and Germany. Its pioneering products in areas such as emerging markets and sustainable investment have gained F&C a reputation for innovation throughout the fund management industry.

In Austria, F&C already manages investment mandates for institutional investors and the registration of its range of mutual funds opens a new window of opportunities. Christian Zeitler, Head of Austria and Switzerland for F&C, said: "Austria is growing market and a very attractive one for us. We have been managing money for Austrian institutional clients for years and we see the registration of our mutual funds as a crucial step that will drive further growth. It also falls in line with the company's plan to increase its European presence."

Zeitler said demand for these investment vehicles will mainly come from banks and funds of funds in search of expertise in specialist products. "There is definitely an appetite for niche investment solutions in Austria and we are confident that we can offer a very attractive and diversified choice of products, from equities and fixed income to real estate and sustainable investment vehicles," he said. "The range will continue to expand with new product launches in the near future."

From a tax perspective the funds fall into the 'Meldefonds' category. Daily fund prices will be published in "Der Standard" and "Die Presse".