Pictet launches Agora Fund Ltd

The fund will invest in large cap European companies with a catalyst-led approach aimed at generating returns by identifying in advance events and themes likely to influence stock prices.

The strategy is managed by a three-member team led by Elif Aktug, who has over 10 years of experience managing this strategy.

Working with Elif will be Benoît Capiod, senior investment manager, and Vincent Ijaouane, investment analyst. The team will take advantage of their established network of company and investment contacts to anticipate major re-rating and de-rating events.

The portfolio is thematically concentrated with 20-25 investment strategies and a low net exposure. Strategies are expressed through a combination of long and short positions with the aim to extract alpha and isolate idiosyncratic risk.

Elif Aktug, the fund’s lead manager, comments: "We believe the recent turmoil in Europe provides us with highly interesting investment opportunities. Well-funded corporates will be looking towards strategic change, especially in M&A. As always in times of change, there will be strategic winners and losers. The fund is able to take positions in both in order to create value."

The Agora Fund was launched during April 2011 and is now available to external investors through the launch of EUR and USD share classes.