Architas plans first foray into investment trusts

Architas, the multi-manager arm of AXA Wealth, is planning to make its first foray into the investment trust market with the launch of a ‘Real Income Assets’ fund, according to New Model Adviser® sister publication Wealth Manager.

The trust, which is in the early planning stages, will aim to invest in illiquid areas of the market, such as private equity, infrastructure, loans, aeroplane finance, catastrophe insurance, property and convertibles.

One source said: ‘It is good to see a new issue targeting areas that have done very badly in the last cycle, and where there should be a lot of hidden value among the debris of the previous disasters, instead of targeting whatever has done best in the last five years.’

The move would mark the first trust launch for Architas, headed by chief investment officer Caspar Rock (pictured). which currently offers both active and passive open-ended fund of funds ranges.

A spokesman for Architas said: ‘We are always exploring new and innovative investment ideas to meet the needs of advisers and clients, but are unable to confirm any details at this stage.’