close targets expansion despite losses in asset management arm

Close Brothers said its intention was for further growth despite losses in the asset management business.

close targets expansion despite losses in asset management arm

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In the 12 months to 31 July it posted a £9 million loss in its asset management arm, but said it had made significant progress with the division’s "transformation".

Preben Prebensen, chief executive of the firm, said: "During the year we have exited a number of non-core businesses which leaves us with a more streamlined group and allows us to focus on growing and developing our core business in banking, securities and asset management."

Over the year the asset management division disposed of a number of core businesses including the property funds business and the UK offshore and Cayman Islands offerings.

Disposals raised approximately £45 million of proceeds which are being reinvested in the division.

Assets Under Management (AUM) grew from £3.3bn to £6.5bn in the year, chiefly due to three acquisitions amounting to £2.6bn.

Two IFA firms, Chartwell and Cavanagh, and an execution only business, Allenbridge, were acquired in the period.

As a whole the group saw operating profit of £132.2m for the year, up from £116.5m at the same time last year.

Its banking division led the increase, with 34% growth in its adjusted operating profit to £106m.

Meanwhile, its securities arm delivered what Close said was "a solid performance in variable market conditions" with adjusted operating profit reduced 8% overall to £55m.

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