The group said it raised a record £1.9bn of net new assets in 2013, building on net sales of £1.6bn in 2012, driven largely by its Absolute Return Government Bond and property funds.
Following the acquisition by SLI, the group will keep its focus on key client fund offerings in the absolute return bond, real estate and liquidity funds, with the latter bucking the struggling trend for money market funds and attracting £420m of net inflows last year.
Relative outperformance
In performance terms, 85% of assets outperformed their respective benchmarks and peer groups in 2013.
Chief executive Chris Samuel said: “I have been delighted with the progress that the business has made since 2009. We have invested in talent and refocused the business which has resulted in improved investment performance, net sales and profitability.
“Ignis is now ready to move on to the next phase of its development by way of a combination with Standard Life Investments. Standard Life Investments will inherit a strong range of products and investment capabilities and a group of talented individuals who will be an asset to the merged business. I am delighted that the business is being handed over in such excellent shape.”
