Acquisition of ETF advisor strengthens quantitative capabilities

The value placed on exchange traded funds by investors was underlined yesterday by the acquisition of a majority stake in a Boston-based ETF management firm

AGF Management Limited (AGF) announced that it has acquired the majority of the equity of FFCM, an ETF advisor and asset management firm whose expertise is delivered through a family of alternative and smart-beta ETFs and a number of ETF managed solutions.

“This strategic acquisition strengthens our core competency in developing and managing quantitative solutions,” said Blake C. Goldring, chairman and CEO of AGF. “This reinforces AGF's commitment to offering innovative solutions that focus on risk mitigation, while offering active market participation.”

Led by Chief Executive Officer Bill Carey, FFCM creates, structures and manages ETFs.

“Partnering with AGF will allow us to grow our research, marketing and product development capabilities,” said Carey. “We are excited about bringing our ETF expertise and dynamic platform to the Canadian marketplace.”

FFCM is currently co-portfolio advisor of AGF U.S. Sector Class, a fund designed to participate in rising markets while placing an emphasis on minimizing drawdown and preserving capital during market declines. FFCM's model ranks sector attractiveness based on factors such as, valuation, momentum and capitalization.

“The addition of the team at FFCM provides AGF with a solid platform from which to develop investment solutions designed to manage volatility and deliver more consistent, repeatable results,” said Kevin McCreadie, president and CIO of AGF Investments. “Furthermore, this acquisition will allow us to grow our U.S. distribution capabilities.”
 

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