Pictet expands absolute return range

The PTR-Agora Fund is market neutral and takes a long/short investment approach. This strategy has become increasingly popular with absolute return funds in the retail space. The aim is to decrease market risk exposure by offsetting short and long positions. 

Compared to long-only funds, the flexibility to short sell reduces correlation with the market. It provides additional leverage, and allows the manager to take advantage of both undervalued and overvalued securities. 

The latest Pictet product invests in around 35 core investment strategies. It is managed by a trio of experts, led by Elif Aktu, who will be working alongside Benoît Capiod and Vincent Ijaouane. 

Launched on July 4, the fund is UCITS IV compliant, with weekly liquidity and daily transparency. 

“In our view, a long/short equity fund is the best way for investors to capitalise on the multiple opportunities arising in the areas of restructuring and M&A,” Aktu said.

“We believe the availability and cost of financing, the strength of European corporate balance sheets, the search for non-organic sources of growth and the growing stability of the economic environment, all point to a continued pick-up in M&A activity."

Fund facts