European Hedge Fund Firm of the Year

Formerly a pure long-only manager, BlackRock is now becoming an emerging force in the alternative space. It is BlackRock’s risk management that judges liked. “I’d sleep better at night knowing my money was with BlackRock,” said one.

In terms of single-strategy hedge funds, BlackRock’s portfolio managers run approximately $10bn (€7.8bn) in hedge fund assets. Most recently, the firm acquired the fund of funds business of Quellos Group; the deal closed in October 2007. The integration of these assets into the existing fund of funds business resulted in the creation of BlackRock Alternative Advisors, a premier fund of funds platform providing hedge, private equity and real asset fund of funds to institutional and individual investors worldwide.

The triumph of BlackRock in this category, coupled with its top place in the general asset management category, further shows how traditional managers are blurring the lines between themselves and alternative providers. BlackRock says it has always sought to better serve clients by anticipating and responding to changes and advancements in the investment industry while continually seeking to broaden and deepen its investment and risk-management capabilities.

Click the screen for a video of the award presentation.

Also shortlisted ...

Man Group plc
Last year’s winner, its position on our shortlist means Man is still recognised as a leading alternative investment management business.

Man Group offers a broad range of fund products for institutional and private investors globally. It is known for its performance, innovative product design and investor service. Jon Aisbitt, chairman of Man Group, said the demand for the firm’s products has remained strong, both from private investors and institutions.

Signet Capital Management
Judges recognised Signet’s consistent investment performance based on a disciplined investment and risk management process.

Its funds have provided investors with solid risk-adjusted returns and steady performance in what continue to be uncertain times. While Signet has not escaped the market turmoil, its funds have maintained investor capital and have remained highly competitive.