The First Sentier Bridge Fund invests in a diversified portfolio of fixed income and equities across the Asia Pacific to provide income and medium-term capital stability and has shown longer-term outperformance.

Returns are fair relative to volatility, exceeding 50 basis points above benchmark on a three, five, and seven-year basis. The committee likes their firm conviction on bottom-up analysis rather than macro factors driving their investments. Longer-term outperformance but controls on style deviation can be improved.

Investment methodology is part of a well-tested house investment philosophy and process to select quality companies with sustainable growth, following rigorous fundamental research. The Fund has extensive research depth in both equities and fixed-income, overseeing a diversified portfolio of over 120 securities.

ESG is well integrated into the investment approach, as is common amongst First Sentier Funds. Exemplary stewardship practices with rigorous engagement implementation and adequate liquidity management. Extensive research depth and well resourced. Engagement frequency is impressive and critical for spotting style deviation of the rule. Good engagement examples were provided in the submissions.

This Fund has been reviewed by three industry veterans of the Benchmark judging committee.