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While 2014 has been an exceptional year for UCITS platforms, 2015 looks more challenging so far.

Still, the platform model shows robustness and deserves to continue to grow rapidly and include a larger diversity of managers. Investors value gate keepers providing selection and access to pool of talents. The platforms have also proven valuable in educating private banks and intermediaries, supporting them in introducing new funds to their clients.

Product training, market follow up, performances and under performances explanations, all these are certainly among the greatest input of the platforms.

2015 is still an open book. While some platforms may opt to only focus on well known proven managers, others would take the risk to select new talents. Market volatility, new trends in commodities as well as increasing geo-political risks are likely to trigger opportunities as well a potential important drawdowns. Global Macro and CTAs would expect to deliver returns in a volatile environment.

Sophie

About your editor: Sophie van Straelen and Asterias Ltd: Sophie van Straelen started her professional career in investment banking spanning derivative markets and hedge funds. Her 12 year experience in investment banking provided a strong base to found Asterias Ltd, the consultancy located in London, specialised in delivering strategic insight in distribution for service providers and hedge fund managers. Listed in 2009 by EFinancial News as one of the top 100 most influential women in finance in Europe, she is a recognized, valuable and independent source of analysis for the media, lobbying groups and investors.