Our Philosophy - Investment Approach

"Our focus on asset allocation and manager selection coupled with our long-term approach have produced superior results for the Grace Family and our clients."

Asset Allocation and Manager Selection

Widely accepted industry studies reveal that asset allocation accounts for a significant portion of a portfolio's long-term performance. Consequently, Ashbridge feels that developing a well diversified asset allocation strategy for each client is an important factor in achieving long-term financial goals. We focus on asset class diversification to enhance performance and manage risk.

Ashbridge has expertise in and access to a variety of traditional and alternative investment styles and strategies. Because of our expertise and access to this wide array of strategies, we are not limited in the types of asset allocation recommendations we can make. To ensure that the benefits of the diversified asset allocation are fully recognized, we select managers who consistently outperform the benchmarks for their respective asset class or strategy.

Ashbridge has been selecting and monitoring hedge funds since 1995. Because of their value in reducing risk and protecting capital in down markets, it is recommended that most clients have some allocation to an appropriate hedged strategy.

Ashbridge actively uses over 40 managers, spread across the hedged equity, event driven/relative value and tactical trading strategies universe. Due diligence is conducted on over 100 hedge fund managers each year, and we are introduced to 300 new managers per annum through our expansive industry network.

We are committed to a long-term approach to achieving financial goals. Ashbridge does not attempt to time the markets as a strategy. For each client, we produce a strategic investment program that is not time sensitive. Our customized programs are not time sensitive because they are formulated to be implemented and maintained over longer time horizons. This approach has produced superior results for the Grace family and our clients.

We believe in active portfolio management. While more "efficient" asset classes such as large cap stocks can sometimes be candidates for passive investment strategies in a limited capacity, index funds and exchange traded funds offer no "protection" in down markets. Active managers usually demonstrate good risk control in declining markets. Passive investing is ineffective in less efficient asset classes such as small cap stocks and international stocks. These asset classes lend themselves well towards active management. Excellent managers in these less efficient asset classes can add significant alpha, through superior returns, lower risk and tax management. Our ability to identify and monitor the best managers adds alpha to all parts of a client's portfolio over a market cycle.

Investment Approach / Investment Committee / Our Model / Confidentiality / Teamwork / Risk Management / Tax Management