Infocus fund manager first to invest in new fund

Alpha Fund Managers became the first Australian investor in the Standard Life Investments Absolute Return Global Bond Strategies Trust (ARGBS), according to statement by Standard Life Investments.

Infocus managing director Rod Bristow said his company was attracted to ARGBS because of its strong diversification benefits and consistent returns over time.

"We believe our clients will benefit from the fund's stable returns and low correlation with traditional bond and equity indices," Mr Bristow said.

Matthew Newham, investment director for wholesale business at Standard Life Investments, said that "We are delighted with Alpha Fund Managers' allocation to ARGBS. This recognises the differentiation that an unconstrained fixed income fund with a focus on absolute returns can provide for investors seeking diversification and predictable returns.

"The ARGBS fund aims to return cash of 3 per cent per annum over rolling three-year periods, with as little volatility as possible. It has the most compelling macro investment opportunities to diversify returns and sources of returns," he said.