Merchant banking and wealth
Close Brothers consistently delivers above-benchmark returns in most of their flagship funds. The risk management is sophisticated and I appreciate how they communicate during market downturns. Their digital platform for tracking investments has improved significantly. Customer service team is knowledgeable.
Pros: Above-benchmark returns, strong risk management, good comms
Cons: Fund documentation can be complex
The investment quality at Close Brothers is good but you pay for it. Management fees are higher than passive alternatives and it's not always clear that the active management adds enough value to justify the premium. That said, their fixed income funds have performed well.
Pros: Good fixed income, professional management
Cons: High fees, questionable value of active management
I invest in several Close Brothers funds through my financial advisor. Performance has been solid if not spectacular. What I value is the breadth of their offerings - whatever my investment thesis, they likely have an appropriate fund. Fee structures have come down over recent years which is welcome.
Pros: Broad product range, improving fees, consistent performance
Cons: Not always the cheapest option
I've been invested in Close Brothers funds for two years and my returns have consistently lagged the benchmark indices. Given the management fees I'm paying, I expected active management to at least match passive funds. Currently reviewing whether to switch to lower-cost index funds.
Pros: Brand name recognition, diverse fund range
Cons: Underperformance relative to benchmarks, high fees
I've invested with Close Brothers for over five years and have been very pleased with the performance across their equity and bond funds. Their ESG integration is genuine, not just marketing. Quarterly reports are detailed and transparent. Fund managers clearly communicate their strategy and positioning.
Pros: Strong performance, genuine ESG, transparent reporting
Cons: Minimum investments can be high for some funds