Endowus to offer Avanda’s Singapore equity strategy on its platform
The approach focuses on small and mid-cap opportunities, supporting MAS’ funding initiative
[SINGAPORE] Singapore-based wealth adviser Endowus will offer institutional investors and accredited investors access to fund manager Avanda Investment Management’s Singapore-focused equity strategy on its investment platform.
The partnership between Endowus and Avanda – which was one of the first three asset managers appointed under the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s (MAS) Equity Market Development Programme (EQDP) – aims to broaden investors’ access to Singapore equity investment opportunities, said Endowus in a press statement on Thursday (Nov 6).
The EQDP is part of the central bank’s efforts to revive the local bourse.
Avanda’s strategy focuses on small and mid-cap (SMID) opportunities and is expected to unlock potential in under-researched, well-governed companies.
Samuel Rhee, chairman and group chief investment officer of Endowus, said: “Avanda’s deep understanding of the local SMID opportunity and its disciplined investment approach align closely with our belief in effective capital deployment that benefits both investors and the broader market.”
The collaboration also supports the EQDP by broadening access to Singapore equity opportunities and boosting investor interest beyond the traditional household names found in the Straits Times Index, said Endowus.
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Ng Kok Song, co-founder and chairman of Avanda, said that the partnership reflects a “shared belief that investment should be rooted in stewardship and long-term value creation”.
In response to queries from The Business Times, Endowus chief investment officer Hugh Chung described the EQDP as a “meaningful initiative” for the Singapore equity markets.
He noted that it “raises awareness and transparency” for listed companies, particularly for mid to smaller-cap companies that are less well-known.
He pointed out that the programme “may also encourage companies to be more active in adopting shareholder-friendly policies that will lead to higher valuations”.
Chung added: “Through this programme, we are hopeful to see continued growth and improved liquidity in the Singapore equities market.”
He also said that Endowus is exploring further collaborations within the programme, and it is engaging other participants of the EQDP “to bring their value propositions to Singapore investors”.
The other two asset managers under the EQDP so far are Fullerton Fund Management and JP Morgan Asset Management.
The next batch is due to be announced in November this year.
