Overview
- Total Firm Assets
- $23.8 billion
- Average High-Net-Worth Client Portfolio Size
- $43.0 million
- Minimum Account Size
- $10,000,000
Fee Structure
Primary Fee Schedule (STONEHAGE FLEMING - FORM ADV PART 2A - JUNE 2026)
| Min | Max | Marginal Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $10,000,000 | 0.65% |
| $10,000,001 | $20,000,000 | 0.40% |
| $20,000,001 | $50,000,000 | 0.30% |
| $50,000,001 | $100,000,000 | 0.25% |
| $100,000,001 | $150,000,000 | 0.20% |
| $150,000,001 | and above | 0.15% |
Illustrative Fee Rates
| Total Assets | Annual Fees | Average Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $1 million | Below minimum client size | |
| $5 million | Below minimum client size | |
| $10 million | $65,000 | 0.65% |
| $50 million | $195,000 | 0.39% |
| $100 million | $320,000 | 0.32% |
Clients
- High-Net-Worth Share of Firm Assets
- 52.50%
- Number of High-Net-Worth Clients
- 291
- Total Client Accounts
- 725
- Discretionary Accounts
- 593
- Non-Discretionary Accounts
- 132
Services Offered
Services: Portfolio Management for Individuals, Portfolio Management for Pooled Investment Vehicles, Portfolio Management for Institutional Clients, Investment Advisor Selection
Regulatory Filings
- SEC CRD Number
- 313913
Additional Brochure: STONEHAGE FLEMING - FORM ADV PART 2A - JUNE 2026 (2026-06-29)
View Document Text
ITEM 1 – COVER PAGE
Stonehage Fleming Investment Management Limited
(“SFIM” or the “Firm”)
Form ADV, Part 2A (the “Brochure”)
6 St James’s Square
London SW1Y 4JU
United Kingdom
+44 20 70870000
www.stonehagefleming.com
31 March 2026
This brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of
Stonehage Fleming Investment Management Limited. If you have any questions about the
contents of
this brochure, please contact us at +44 20 70870000 or
katie.mundell@stonehagefleming.com.
The information in this brochure has not been approved or verified by the United States
Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) or by any state securities authority.
The Firm is registered with the SEC as a “registered investment adviser” or “RIA”. Registration
as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training.
information about the Firm
is also available on the SEC’s website at
Additional
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
ITEM 2 – SUMMARY OF MATERIAL CHANGES
This section provides a Summary of Material Changes (the “Summary”) reflecting any material
changes to this Brochure since our last required “annual update” filing.
In the event of any material changes, the summary is provided to all clients within 120 days of
our fiscal year-end, and a copy of this complete Brochure is available at any time upon request.
Since the last update was filed, the Firm notes the following material changes:
Item 4: (Advisory business): Updated to include details on new ownership. The Firm is
wholly owned by Stonehage Fleming (UK) Limited (Principal Owner). Stonehage Fleming
(UK) Limited is owned by Corient International Acquisition Co Limited (UK). Corient
International Acquisition Co Limited (UK) is ultimately majority owned by Mubadala
Capital, a subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company PJSC whose sole shareholder
is the Government of Abu Dhabi, through various wholly owned intermediate entities.
Item 8 (Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss): Expanded
disclosures relating to the Firm’s use of foreign exchange transactions and derivatives,
including additional detail on associated risks such as counterparty risk, leverage and
the potential limitations of hedging strategies.
Item 10 (Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations): Expanded and restructured
disclosure to reflect integration within the Corient Group, including the addition of
numerous affiliated entities and enhanced explanation of intercompany relationships,
referral arrangements, and associated conflicts of interest, together with relevant
regulatory statuses of certain group entities.
Item 14 (Client Referrals and Other Compensation): Expanded disclosure regarding
referral and introducer arrangements, including additional detail on when the Firm may
pay or receive referral-based compensation and the associated conflicts of interest.
Item 15 (Custody): Enhanced disclosure regarding custody arrangements, including
clarification of circumstances under which the Firm is deemed to have custody due to
fee deduction and the role of custodians in providing account statements. Further,
clarification added regarding the Firm’s use of affiliated custodians, including
confirmation that affiliated custodians are not utilised for U.S. clients and may be
suggested for certain non
U.S. clients, together with associated conflicts of interest.
-
ITEM 3 - TABLE OF CONTENTS
ITEM 1 – COVER PAGE ...................................................................................................... 1
ITEM 2 – SUMMARY OF MATERIAL CHANGES...................................................................... 2
ITEM 3 - TABLE OF CONTENTS........................................................................................... 3
ITEM 4 - ADVISORY BUSINESS........................................................................................... 3
ITEM 5 - FEES AND COMPENSATION.................................................................................. 5
ITEM 6 - PERFORMANCE-BASED FEES AND SIDE-BY-SIDE MANAGEMENT ........................... 7
ITEM 7 - TYPES OF CLIENTS............................................................................................... 8
ITEM 8 - METHODS OF ANALYSIS, INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISK OF LOSS ................. 8
ITEM 9 - DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION..............................................................................16
ITEM 10 - OTHER FINANCIAL INDUSTRY ACTIVITIES AND AFFILIATIONS..............................16
ITEM 11 - CODE OF ETHICS, PARTICIPATION OR INTEREST IN CLIENT TRANSACTIONS AND
PERSONAL TRADING...............................................................................................18
ITEM 12 - BROKERAGE PRACTICES ...................................................................................21
ITEM 13 - REVIEW OF ACCOUNTS.....................................................................................22
ITEM 14 - CLIENT REFERRALS AND OTHER COMPENSATION..............................................22
ITEM 15 - CUSTODY .........................................................................................................23
ITEM 16 - INVESTMENT DISCRETION.................................................................................24
ITEM 17 - VOTING CLIENT SECURITIES..............................................................................25
ITEM 18 - FINANCIAL INFORMATION.................................................................................25
ITEM 4 - ADVISORY BUSINESS
About the Firm
Stonehage Fleming Investment Management (“SFIM” or the “Firm”) is a Registered Investment
Adviser based in London, United Kingdom. It is also authorized and regulated by the United
Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) to carry out investment business (FRN 194382)
and is registered with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (South Africa) as a Financial
Services Provider (“FSP”) under the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act, No 37 of
2002 (FSP No: 46194).
The Firm was established in December 2001 and provides investment management for high-
net-worth (“HNW”)
Investment Advisers,
individuals, family groups, Charities, other
Corporations and Trusts.
As a registered investment adviser, the Firm acts as a fiduciary related to the conduct of its
investment advisory services. As such the Firm has an obligation to act in the best interest of
its clients guided by the core fiduciary duties of loyalty and care.
Ownership
The Firm is wholly owned by Stonehage Fleming (UK) Limited (Principal Owner). Stonehage
Fleming (UK) Limited is owned by Corient International Acquisition Co Limited (UK). Corient
International Acquisition Co Limited (UK) is ultimately majority owned by Mubadala Capital, a
subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company PJSC whose sole shareholder is the Government
of Abu Dhabi, through various wholly owned intermediate entities.
See ADV Part 1 schedule B for the complete ownership.
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary,/313913
Assets Under Management
The Group manages and advises over $29.2 billion of assets, of which approximately $23.7
billion is managed by the Firm (as of 31 March 2026).
Outsourced Family Investment Office (“OFIO”)
For clients with significant liquid wealth (typically $100m+) the Firm offers an Outsourced
Family Investment Office service (advisory). The Firm acts as the client’s “outsourced” Chief
Investment Officer, providing counsel on governance of the investment process, structure,
asset allocation, investment strategy, selection and oversight of external/third party managers,
and specific investment recommendations on a range of assets including Equities, Fixed
Income, Cash, mutual funds, alternative funds (including private capital and hedge funds),
exchange traded funds, and derivatives. The Firm may or may not manage a proportion of the
assets, depending on the client’s investment requirements. Depending on the client’s
requirements, the Firm can provide consolidated reporting and portfolio analysis. The investor
makes all final decisions regarding the purchase or sale of investments.
Portfolio Management
Bringing together the Firm’s Teams, the Firm will build a discretionary or advisory portfolio for
clients, tailored to each client’s needs. Portfolios can be equity only (stocks), fixed income only
(bonds), cash only, mutual funds, alternative funds (including private capital and hedge funds),
and exchange traded funds only, or a combination of these assets (multi asset). The Firm can
also use forward currency contracts for hedging purposes.
Prospective clients enter into an investment management agreement (“IMA”) which details the
services to be provided and the authority and discretion the Firm is given to manage the assets
in the client’s portfolio. In each case, discretion can be limited through the client’s specific
investment guidelines and restrictions (companies, investment sectors or geographies) that
they prefer or those they wish to exclude from their portfolio. Clients should understand that
some restrictions could be exceeded or compromised because of events beyond the control
of the Firm. For non-discretionary accounts, the investor makes the ultimate decision
regarding the purchase or sale of investments.
The Firm follows a four-step suitability process as set out below to create the right portfolio for
each client, which includes their preferences.
Knowledge & Experience
The Firm confirms the client’s preferred service type (e.g. discretionary versus non-
discretionary).
Fact Find
The Firm will undertake a detailed Fact Find with the client to understand:
Investment objectives
Currency requirements
Restrictions
Performance comparators
Income and draw-down requirements
Liquidity requirements
The client’s investment horizon
Knowledge and experience
Tax requirements
Risk
The client answers a series of questions to help the Firm assess the client’s risk appetite in
relation to the portfolio, considering their risk and return expectations, as well as their capacity
for loss. The output of the questionnaire is then assessed through a third-party risk assessment
system which helps the Client Relationship Manager to determine the most suitable mandate
for the client, considering the client’s requirements and any client-directed mandate
restrictions from the Fact Find.
Investment Proposal Report
An Investment Proposal Report (IPR) is prepared for the client, setting out the outputs from the
suitability process, including any changes to asset allocation guidelines and any restrictions
specified by the client in terms of exclusions of certain types of investment. If the client agrees
with the service and mandate set out in the IPR, an Investment Management Agreement (“IMA”)
is prepared and sent out for the client to sign.
The Firm does not participate in wrap fee programs.
ITEM 5 - FEES AND COMPENSATION
Fees
The below table represents the standard fee tariff for the Firm’s investment clients and is for
indicative purposes. Client fees are based on an agreed percentage on the value of assets
under management (“investment management fees”).
Client fees are negotiable, including specific servicing or reporting requirements, asset levels,
or other factors, in our sole discretion. Fees are potentially subject to Value Added Tax (“VAT”)
or other taxes and the Firm will confirm these to the client prior to providing any services.
Please note that fees for the Private Capital Investments will be billed at a different rate to the
tariffs set out and disclosed to clients prior to investment.
Most of the Firm’s portfolios are billed quarterly in arrears. However, from time to time the Firm
will agree to a different frequency with clients at their request. In all cases, the frequency of
billing will be agreed prior to the provision of any investment management services.
For the Outsourced Family Investment Office, fees are invoiced to the client. For portfolio
management, charges will usually be deducted from the portfolio. However, some clients
prefer to pay outside of their portfolios, in which case they will be sent an invoice to settle by
bank transfer.
The Firm does not charge fees in advance. No additional fees or penalties are charged for
termination of any IMAs. Fees are charged on a pro rata basis up to the point of termination.
The Firms fees are exclusive of custody charges, brokerage commissions, transaction fees and
other related costs and expenses. See Item 12: Brokerage Practices. Clients may also incur
their own custody fees, administration fees and bank charges for operating their own portfolio.
Equity Management
Portfolio Value
Percentage Per Annum
On the first $5 million
1.25 %
$5 Million to $50 Million
0.75 %
More than $50 million
0.50 % (on the entire amount)
Cash Management
Portfolio Value
Percentage Per Annum
On the first $10 million
0.45 %
On the next $10 million
0.20 %
On the next $30 million
0.15 %
On the next $50 million
0.10 %
On the next $150 million
0.07 %
On $250 million upwards
0.05 %
Fixed Income
Portfolio Value
Percentage Per Annum
On the first $10 million
0.50 %
On the next $10 million
0.45 %
On the next $30 million
0.40 %
On the next $50 million
0.35 %
On $100 million upwards
0.25 %
Multi Asset
Portfolio Value
Percentage Per Annum
On the first $10 million
0.65 %
On the next $10 million
0.40 %
On the next $30 million
0.30 %
On the next $50 million
0.25 %
On the next $50 million
0.20 %
On $150 million onwards
0.15 %
Outsourced Family Investment Office
Fees are negotiated with each client individually according to the bespoke service provided to
them by the Firm and the amount of assets under advice.
Compensation
Neither the Firm nor any of its supervised persons accepts compensation for the sale of
securities or other investment products.
ITEM 6 - PERFORMANCE-BASED FEES AND SIDE-BY-SIDE MANAGEMENT
The Firm does not generally charge performance-based fees. No performance-based fees are charged
to clients receiving services from the Firm in reliance on its SEC registration for U.S. persons. The Firm
currently has one performance-based fee arrangement in place for a non-U.S. client relationship (or
group of related portfolios) that is serviced outside of the Firm’s U.S. client business and under a
different applicable regulatory framework. Any such arrangement is entered into only where permitted
by applicable law and disclosed to the relevant client.
Performance-based fee arrangements create conflicts of interest because they may incentivise the
Firm to recommend investments that are riskier or more speculative than would be the case in the
absence of such compensation and may incentivise the Firm to favour such accounts. The Firm seeks
to manage these conflicts through its policies and procedures relating to suitability, portfolio oversight,
trade allocation, best execution and conflicts management.
ITEM 7 - TYPES OF CLIENTS
The majority of the Firm’s clients are high net worth individuals, but the Firm also manages
assets for charities, other investment advisers, corporations and trusts.
The minimum amount required to open an Outsourced Family Investment Office Service is
typically $100 million.
The minimum amount required to open an Equity Management portfolio is typically $15
million.
The minimum amount required to open a Fixed Income or Cash portfolio is typically $10
million.
The minimum amount for a multi asset portfolio is typically $20 million.
Although the Firm expects most portfolios to be maintained at or above levels, the Firm does
not typically close portfolios where they drop below. Ongoing, long-term client relationships
are the norm, and the Firm would normally be aware of the reasons for portfolios going below
the standard minimum amounts.
ITEM 8 - METHODS OF ANALYSIS, INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISK OF
LOSS
Outsourced Family Investment Office
A highly bespoke investment policy and strategy is agreed with the client, and the Firm will
provide the client with detailed input on governance, structure, investment strategy and
specific investments. Investment ideas are routinely brought to the client’s attention for joint
assessment and implementation. The Firm will undertake detailed research on any ideas
introduced by the client.
Portfolio Management
The Firm offers US clients the ability to invest in three types of investment strategies:
Equity Management - Global Best Ideas (GBI) Equity Strategy
Multi Asset
Fixed Income / Cash Portfolios.
Each investment strategy is discussed below in turn.
Equity Management – Global Best Ideas (GBI) Equity Strategy
The Equity Management Team manages the GBI Equity strategy, which invests in best of class
businesses for their quality, strategic competitive edge and value. The investment process is
entirely bottom-up and driven by fundamental research. The Global Investment Universe is
screened for listed companies that have a market capitalization of over $10bn and an average
of at least $75m of daily trading volume over the past 6 months. This reduces the universe to
c.2000 companies. From this list of 2,000 companies, the Team has developed a core list of c.
150 listed companies which they deem to be portfolio candidates. These companies are
actively followed in the Core Universe list (‘the Core list’). The Investment Committee meets
weekly to discuss the progress of investments as well as potential additions to or deletions
from portfolios and the Core list. If a company is being considered for inclusion in the Core list,
one of the analysts will draw up a short report primarily based on the 15 quality factors
explained in more detail below. This short report will be discussed at the Investment
Committee to determine whether it should be actively followed. Should it pass the test, the
company then becomes the responsibility of a specific analyst and, if the listed company is
then deemed worthy of consideration for the portfolio, a far more rigorous analysis of the
company will be made in order to ensure it fulfils the criteria to be considered a ‘Global Best
Idea’. The mandate is limited to 20-30 holdings.
Companies are selected for inclusion in the Core list and ultimately the portfolios, based on
their quality, ability to exhibit a strategic competitive edge and generate sustainable growth.
This is based on four key criteria: (i) the ability to grow organically on a sustainable basis, (ii)
proven, quality management, (iii) operating efficiency, and (iv) the ability to generate positive
free cash flow on a sustainable basis.
The Equity Management Team determines a company’s ability to meet these objectives in
several ways. Decisions are made based on a mix of qualitative and quantitative analysis. In
terms of the quantitative factors, there are 15 key tests which have been developed over
several years, covering areas including liquidity, profitability and, where deemed financially
material, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors, to assess whether a business
is ‘best-in-class’.
In terms of ESG factors, The Equity Management Team subscribe to data providers such as
Glass Lewis, Morningstar and Bloomberg for critical information that is used to support
decision making and to conduct on-going monitoring of our holdings for environmental and
social controversies. Businesses are also monitored for their emissions and other global ESG
objectives/accords.
The qualitative characteristics on which the Investment Manager and Investment Team focus
heavily include:
The quality of the business in the context of organic growth, management quality,
effectiveness and free cash flow generation
The quality of the Management Team, in particular the Chairperson CEO, CFO, COO and
breadth of the Board’s experience and independence
Business strategy, governance, environmental and social responsibility
Innovative, good shareholder communication, success with implementation
All members of the Investment Committee participate in discussing and considering
investment propositions. The Investment Manager is ultimately responsible for portfolio
construction; however, the senior investment analysts participate closely and they work as a
Team in supporting portfolio decision making. The portfolio candidates are selected from the
Core list based on a combination of expected returns, conviction in those returns and historic
share price volatility.
The Investment Committee considers the portfolio weights on an ongoing basis. Segregated
client portfolios are managed with the GBI holdings and weights as the model portfolio.
Portfolio weight dispersion between the Fund and segregated portfolios may vary over time due
to differences in the timing of inflows and any client specific restrictions. Clients with
segregated mandates may choose to apply their own security and sector investment
restrictions and limitations.
Good liquidity is a key feature of the portfolio. The portfolio will hold approximately 20-30
securities. The Investment Manager applies certain internal minimum and maximum sector
banding limitations to ensure that the portfolio is sufficiently diversified. For changing
circumstances, the bandings can be adjusted after official approval from the Investment
Committee.
Investing in securities involves risk of loss that clients should be prepared to bear. Below are
some of the key risks, however, this is not a complete set of all risks to which investors’
portfolios are exposed.
Market Risk – Market Price Risk arises mainly from uncertainty about future prices of
equities. It represents the potential loss the portfolio might suffer through holding market
positions in the face of price movements.
Inflation Risk – The value of your investment will be affected by inflation. Unless the
performance of an investment meets or exceeds the rate of inflation, the real value of that
investment will reduce.
Investment process – The strategy follows a buy to hold philosophy so investments in and
out of entire company holdings are relatively infrequent.
Fees – Fees including custody and administration costs as well as transaction costs may
affect the overall performance of the strategy.
Key Person Risk – The risk of losing a key member of the Team. A strong Team has been built
around the Investment Manager, with three experienced equity analysts in place at senior
level, plus relationship management and other support provided by an experienced Team.
Liquidity Risk – Liquidity has been a core focus of the Global Best Ideas Equity strategy since
inception and is one of the quality tests. The strategy assets comprise only readily realisable
securities, which can be easily sold. Liquidity risk is managed on a regular basis by the Team,
in accordance with policies and procedures in place and separately monitored by the Firms
Risk Team.
Interest Rate Risk – Interest rate risk represents the potential losses that the strategy may
suffer due to adverse movements in relevant interest rates. The amount of income receivable
from bank balances will be affected by fluctuations in interest rates. The portfolio is not
significantly exposed to interest rate risks as it invests primarily in equities, which represent
on average more than 95% of its net assets. The businesses in the portfolio generally have
strong balance sheets.
Credit Risk – Credit risk is the risk that counterparties or investment issuers will be unable
or unwilling to meet a commitment that it has entered and cause the strategy to incur
financial loss. The strategy will be exposed to settlement risk on parties with whom it trades
and custody risk. In managing this risk, the Investment Manager seeks to work with and / or
invest in institutions that are well known, financially sound and where appropriate well rated
by rating agencies.
Settlement Risk – Default by a broker could expose the strategy to an adverse price
in the security between execution and settlement. When carrying out
movement
transactions in listed securities these are settled on cash versus delivery basis.
Custody Risk – Custody Risk is the risk of loss of assets held in custody. The custodian must
exercise due skill, care and diligence in the selection and periodic review and ongoing
monitoring of sub-custodians.
Currency Risk – Currency risk is the risk that the value of financial instruments will fluctuate
due to changes in foreign exchange rates. Currency risk is addressed by the Investment
Manager buying predominantly global businesses with a well-diversified currency profile.
The currency exposure of cash holdings is actively managed on a regular basis.
-
Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk – the Firm may use foreign exchange forward
contracts primarily for hedging and risk
management purposes. All spot foreign exchange
and foreign exchange forward transactions are carried out by the client’s appointed
custodian on the client’s behalf, based on instructions or portfolio activity directed by the
Firm. Although these transactions are intended to reduce currency risk, hedging may be
imperfect or ineffective and may limit gains if exchange rates move favourably. The use of
derivatives involves additional risks, including counterparty risk (the risk that a counterparty
fails to meet its obligations), liquidity risk, and valuation risk, particularly in stressed market
conditions. Derivatives may also involve leverage, which can amplify losses. While the Firm
seeks to manage these risks through policies and oversight, it cannot eliminate all risks
associated with foreign exchange transactions and derivative instruments.
Investment risk is monitored by the Performance and Investment Risk Team. Sungard’s APT is
used as the main risk model where a variety of risk measures are scrutinised to understand risk
levels and get comfortable with the degree of risk taken. The risk measures that are tracked
and monitored include:
Liquidity risk, measured by how quickly the portfolio could be liquidated, assuming 20% of
average daily volume of each security could be sold (the entire portfolio could currently be
liquidated within 2.5 days trading days);
Portfolio volatility versus the benchmark;
Beta; a detailed analysis of tracking error on a sectoral and geographic basis;
An analysis of the top 10 stocks contributing to risk as defined by tracking error; and,
The top 10 companies that diversify risk.
Scenario analysis is produced to see how the strategy fared during major economic and market
events over the past 20 years. Various regression analyses are performed to understand the
strategy’s relationship with common macro factors.
Multi Asset Strategy
The Firms investment philosophy is built around a mission to protect family wealth, over
multiple generations, against an inflation and risk adjusted benchmark. Our approach is to
construct and manage global, multi-asset portfolios with a focus on long term returns and
avoiding speculation. Our philosophy leads us to invest across asset classes, as well as
geographies, sectors and underlying investment styles. The multi asset portfolios are
constructed using mutual funds, alternative funds (including private capital and hedge funds),
and exchange traded funds (ETFs), or a combination of these to construct portfolios. The Firm
can also use Forward Currency Contracts for hedging purposes.
Our multi-asset investment process targets risk ranges (based upon expected volatility relative
to world equities), being 20% to 40% for Moderate, 40%-70% for Balanced, and 60% to 85% for
Growth. The process for assessing clients’ suitability includes recording the client’s
knowledge, experience, financial situation and investment objectives and aligning these
results with our solutions.
Monitoring client suitability is an ongoing process and forms the backbone of all investment
review meetings to ensure any portfolio we manage remains suitable for the client and fit for
purpose.
Investment mandates may be tailored to bespoke requirements and often provide essential
diversification to our clients’ operating businesses. These bespoke portfolios are then centrally
managed and monitored alongside the core process.
Where appropriate we may additionally recommend a structural allocation to private markets
where evidence shows long term returns can be enhanced. This will be achieved either through
our Private Capital program, or by building a portfolio of private capital funds for the client.
Private Capital Investments require a long-term commitment, usually over 10 or more years,
and investors are unlikely to be able to access their investment until such time as the fund
returns its capital to investors. In addition, private capital is a high-risk investment, and
investors should be aware that they may lose some or all of their original capital invested
Our investment philosophy and process are underpinned by rigorous analysis of underlying
investments, ensuring highest conviction in the integrity of selected assets. As such,
investments with opaque and overly complex structuring, ownership or fundamentals are not
considered for allocation.
Our favoured asset classes for long term preservation and growth of real wealth are public and
private equities, with traditional bonds as diversifying investments for appropriate risk profiles.
We also allocate to alternative asset classes where we believe they meet the criteria above and
provide adequate diversification benefits to the wider portfolio.
A range of investment solutions are considered, including conventional passive funds,
factor/style specific strategies, and active managers. The Firm may also take direct exposure
to equities and fixed income securities.
Investment decisions are centralised around the Firms Investment Committee (IC). The core
multi-asset strategy is driven by the IC’s outlook on key determinants of prospective capital
returns. This includes macro-economic conditions, corporate earnings, valuations, sentiment
and market trends, which informs our constantly reviewed and scrutinised Investment
Outlook. Our assessment of relative investment opportunities dictates positioning across
asset classes, regions, industries and investment styles. Asset allocation decisions translate
into the selection and management of underlying investments from our Approved List, which
is overseen by a separate Fund and Security Selection Committee (FSSC).
Decisions to tactically favour investment characteristics over others are primarily based upon
valuations, earnings, sentiment, economic and geopolitical conditions, market technical and
opportunities for manager outperformance.
Investing involves risk of loss that clients should be prepared to bear. Below are some of the
key risks, however, this is not a complete set of all risks to which investors’ portfolios are
exposed.
Market Price Risk – Market Price Risk arises mainly from uncertainty about future prices of
equities. It represents the potential loss the portfolio might suffer through holding market
positions in the face of price movements.
Inflation Risk – The value of your investment will be affected by inflation. Unless the
performance of an investment meets or exceeds the rate of inflation, the real value of that
investment will reduce.
Fees – Fees including custody and administration costs as well as transaction costs may
affect the overall performance of the strategy.
Key Person Risk – The Multi Asset Investment Team is made up of experienced
professionals. The Deputy head of Investments manages the team with support from senior
Team members.
Liquidity Risk – Certain securities held directly or indirectly may be difficult to sell at the time
and the price the investment team would like. This is particularly so with private capital
assets where no secondary market may exist. There is a risk that a strategy will lose value or
be prevented from realizing gains. Liquidity risk is managed on a regular basis by the Team,
in accordance with policies and procedures in place and separately monitored by the Firms
Performance and Risk Team.
Interest Rate Risk – Interest rate risk represents the potential losses that the strategy may
suffer due to adverse movements in relevant interest rates. The amount of income receivable
from bank balances will be affected by fluctuations in interest rates.
Credit Risk – Credit risk is the risk that counterparties or investment issuers will be unable
or unwilling to meet a commitment that it has entered and cause the strategy to incur
financial loss. The strategy will be exposed to settlement risk on parties with whom it trades
and custody risk. In managing this risk, the Investment Manager seeks to work with and / or
invest in institutions that are well known, financially sound and where appropriate well rated
by rating agencies.
Settlement Risk – Default by the trading counterparties could expose a portfolio to adverse
price movement in the security between execution and settlement. This risk is mitigated
because transactions in listed securities are settled on cash versus delivery basis.
Custody Risk – Custody Risk is the risk of loss of assets held in custody. The custodian must
exercise due skill, care and diligence in the selection and periodic review and ongoing
monitoring of sub-custodians.
Currency Risk – Currency risk is the risk that the value of financial instruments will fluctuate
due to changes in foreign exchange rates. Currency risk is addressed by the Investment
Manager buying predominantly global businesses with a well-diversified currency profile. The
currency exposure of cash holdings are actively managed on a regular basis.
Fixed Income and Cash Management
The Fixed Income and Cash Management strategies are managed against client-agreed
investment guidelines. We do not offer these portfolios on a non-discretionary basis.
The Firms Fixed Income portfolios offer clients an exposure to a diversified allocation of
investment-grade bonds (typically minimum ratings will be BBB/Baa2 or better), and the
average duration will range from 2 to 7 years. The Firm will typically not invest in direct high
yield (bonds rated lower than BBB-/Baa3), emerging markets, or structured credit. Typical
underlying investments used are Corporate, Financial and Sovereign Bonds.
The Firms Cash Management offering is focused on cash preservation, and the average credit
quality is typically high (upper end of investment grade, single A or better). The portfolio average
duration is usually less than 1 year. Typical instruments used are Government Treasury Bills
and Corporate Bonds.
Within the issuer investment universe, the Firm will look to allocate to sovereign entities,
sovereign agencies, supranational entities, corporate and financial issuers. The Firm pays
significant attention to liquidity in relation to issue size and broker coverage, avoiding sub-
scale issues and private placements (typical issue size is GBP >200mio, EUR >250mio,
USD>500mio). Portfolios will typically be structured in a laddered maturity fashion, assuring a
frequent maturity pattern, rather than targeting specific dates and creating clusters of maturing
bonds, thus increasing reinvestment risk. Fixed Income portfolios will generally consist of
approximately 20 issuers providing diversification at issuer level of about 5%. Cash
Management portfolios may be more concentrated, especially if only investing in sovereign
bonds (US or UK Treasury Bills). The Firm will look to maintain the portfolios close to fully
invested.
The starting point for investment is an in-depth review of the internal benchmark index the Firm
looks to manage against. The benchmark index is analysed on a duration, maturity, credit
profile, sectoral and issuer basis. The Firm’s standard starting point, when initially constructing
the portfolio, will be duration neutral against the internal benchmark. Following the
construction of the model portfolio the expression of views around duration will be governed
by the Investment Team
As the Firm’s investable universe is restricted to investment grade (focusing on the higher
quality of the spectrum rather than issuers closer to crossover) with maturities typically out to
10 years, this creates a reasonably stable investable universe, with contained volatility. With
regards to issuer selection, the Firm does not conduct primary research or construct valuation
models to follow issuers. The Firm relies on research and analysis from external providers to
assure the credit quality of the issuers. Where the Firm formulates its own independent internal
views which aide implementation of these portfolios, the Firm documents on its quarterly
dashboard that covers its model portfolios that dictate construction of wider portfolios.
Investing in securities involves risk of loss that clients should be prepared to bear. Both the
Cash Management and the Fixed Income portfolios take a particular type of market risk. In the
Cash Management portfolios, the focus is to offer clients a portfolio that is high credit quality
with limited interest rate risk, usually invested in very short dated sovereign bonds. Within Fixed
Income markets this is amongst the safer investment profiles one could allocate capital to. The
Fixed Income portfolios offer clients exposure to investment grade corporate credit. The Firm
aims to do that in a risk-controlled fashion by not reaching out into lower-rated (sub investment
grade, lower than BBB-/Baa3) or longer-dated (maturities longer than 10 years). In this way, the
Firms attempts to limit the credit and interest rate volatility.
Below are some of the additional key risks, however, this is not a complete set of all risks to
which investors’ portfolios are exposed.
Credit Risk – Credit risk is the risk that an issuer will be unable or unwilling to meet a coupon
or maturity payment and cause the portfolios financial loss. The Firm’s portfolios only
allocate capital to investment grade rated bonds thus mitigating part of this specific risk.
Where an existing holding is downgraded from investment grade we have the discretion to
continue to hold the position.
Interest Rate Risk – Interest rate risk represents the potential losses that holdings may suffer
due to adverse movements in relevant interest rates. The Firm’s Cash Management portfolios
are relatively insulated from this as they invest in very short maturity bonds with only limited
interest rate sensitivity. The Fixed Income portfolios may be exposed to interest rate risk. The
Firm attempts to actively manage this by switching from longer dated bonds to shorter dates
(mandate permitting) if the Firm believes this to be warranted.
Inflation Risk – The value of your investment will be affected by inflation. Unless the
performance of an investment meets or exceeds the rate of inflation, the real value of that
investment will reduce.
Liquidity Risk – The risk that Fixed Income positions held in portfolios may have difficulty in
trading. Liquidity across Fixed income markets can become challenged particularly in the
areas such as high yield and emerging markets. The Firm’s focus on investment grade
markets alleviates this issue. Furthermore, The Firms investment process is to only consider
large issue sizes, covered by multiple brokers, which provides an additional layer of
protection.
Settlement Risk – Default by the trading counterparties could expose a portfolio to adverse
price movement in the security between execution and settlement. This risk is mitigated
because transactions in listed securities are settled on cash versus delivery basis.
Custody Risk – Custody Risk is the risk of loss of assets held in custody. The custodian must
exercise due skill, care and diligence in the selection and periodic review and ongoing
monitoring of sub-custodians.
Currency Risk – Currency risk is the risk that the value of financial instruments will fluctuate
due to changes in foreign exchange rates. Typically, in Cash Management and Direct Fixed
Income portfolios the Firm will not mix currencies and prefers to keep them as single
currency portfolios.
Market Price Risk – Arises mainly from uncertainty about future prices of securities. It
represents the potential loss the portfolio might suffer through holding market positions in
the face of price movements. As portfolio managers, the Firm will manage market price risk
daily in accordance with the investment objectives and mandate guidelines. The Firm’s focus
on the investment grade part of the market and indeed the portfolios’ shorter maturity profile
vs. the market lowers the overall risk.
Key Person Risk – The Fixed Income Team is made up of two experienced professionals, and
there is additional support provided by the wider Investment Team. If needed, the Deputy
Head of Investments who is an experienced investment manager has insight into the Fixed
Income and Cash Management propositions.
General Risks
In addition to the above key investment risks, clients are also exposed to the following:
Cybersecurity - The Firm and the Clients are subject to risks associated with a breach in
cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is a generic term used to describe the technology, processes
and practices designed to protect networks, systems, computers, programs and data from
both intentional cyber-attacks and unintentional damage or interruption in service. A
cybersecurity breach could expose the Firm to substantial costs, civil liability, and regulatory
inquiry and/or action. In addition, as the Firm does not directly control the cybersecurity
systems of third-party service providers, there can be no assurance that the cybersecurity
practices of these providers will protect the Firm or the Clients.
Geopolitical Risk - In recent years, world events such as terrorism, natural disasters, public
health emergencies, as well as political and social turmoil have resulted in substantial
volatility in the financial markets, impacting the wider global economy as well as directly
impacted countries. Similar events, and the resulting fluctuations, could have a substantial
impact on the performance of investments in client accounts.
ITEM 9 - DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
The Firm and its employees are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events to which they may have been or are subject to. The Firm has no information
to disclose that is applicable.
ITEM 10 - OTHER FINANCIAL INDUSTRY ACTIVITIES AND AFFILIATIONS
The Firm and its management persons are not registered, and have no applications pending to
register, as a US broker-dealer or registered representative thereof, futures commission
merchant, commodity pool operator, or commodity trading advisor.
The Corient Group Companies comprises investment advisers, wealth planning, custody
services, corporate and trust services as well as family office provision, provide clients with a
range of services depending on their needs and circumstances.
The Firm’s affiliates may refer prospective clients or private fund investors to us. In turn, the
Firm may also refer clients to certain group affiliates. In such cases, the Firm may pay or receive
direct or indirect compensation regarding the referral. Referrals of prospective clients present
a conflict of interest to recommend Corient Group affiliates over others. The Firm seeks to
mitigate this conflict by limiting recommendations to those it believes to be in the best interest
of our client and required disclosures are provided to referred prospects. The Firm considers a
variety of factors when considering referral recommendations, including our clients’ financial
goals, objectives and portfolio, and the scope of our engagement. In all cases, it is our goal to
provide our clients with the services we believe best suit their needs.
The Firms Advisors can recommend Corient IA funds and receive an indirect economic benefit
from any applicable management fees and/or incentive fees earned by the general partner or
sponsor.
Certain employees may support one or more of our related or affiliated advisers under
common ownership and control. If an individual supports more than one entity, they are
subject to each entity’s Code of Ethics and policies and procedures.
The Firm also recommends or selects other third-party investment advisers where this meets
the client’s needs and objectives. The Firm does not receive any referral fees or other direct or
indirect compensation in connection with recommending or selecting other third-party
investment advisers for client portfolios.
Affiliates
The Firms affiliates through common or indirect ownership:
Stonehage Fleming Wealth Planning Limited
Stonehage Fleming Financial Services Limited
Stonehage Fleming Advisory Limited
Stonehage Fleming Investment Management (Suisse) AG
Stonehage Fleming Investment Management (Liechtenstein) AG
Stonehage Fleming Corporate Services Luxembourg S.A
Stonehage Fleming Investment Management (South Africa) (pty) Ltd
Stonehage Fleming Dealing and Treasury Services (Jersey) Limited
Stonehage Fleming Dealing and Treasury Services (UK) Limited
Stonehage Fleming Law Limited
Stonehage Fleming Law US (also trading under Peter Rosenberg & Partners LLC)
Stonehage Fleming US LLC
Exmoor Fiduciary Limited
Stanhope Capital LLP (CRD – 162512)
Portman Square US Real Estate I LP
LGL Partners, LLC
S4S Ventures General Partner LLC
Stanhope Capital (Switzerland) S.A
Portman Square General Partner S.A.R.L
Corient Private Wealth LLC (CRD #319448)
Corient IA LLC - SEC Registered Investment Adviser (CRD #326262)
Corient Tax LLC
Corient Trust Company LLC
ITEM 11 - CODE OF ETHICS, PARTICIPATION OR INTEREST IN CLIENT
TRANSACTIONS AND PERSONAL TRADING
The Firm has adopted a Code of Ethics (the “Code”) that outlines the Firm’s principles of
integrity, competence and fairness. The Code was adopted in accordance with Advisers Act
Rule 204A-1 to govern, among other things, personal transactions by all access persons, and
to ensure that the interests of access persons do not conflict with the interests of clients. The
Code provides employees with guidelines on a range of activities including personal account
dealing, gifts and entertainment, conflicts of interest, and how to report Code breaches.
The Code of Ethics policy sets forth the Firms professional expectations of its personnel. It
imposes a duty of confidentiality to clients and the firm, requires directors to declare any
outside business interests and directorships and prohibits trading on material non-public
information. It also includes a Gifts, Hospitality and Entertainment Policy and an Anti-Bribery
and Corruption Policy that are designed to provide reasonable oversight of potential conflicts
associated with the receipt and giving of entertainment and other gifts. The Code explains how
staff should report Code breaches. A copy of the Code is available to all clients or prospective
clients on request. The Firm’s contact information appears on the cover page of this Brochure.
All the Firm’s Directors are required to declare any outside business interests including
directorships held with other companies. A list of all such interests is presented at each board
meeting for review.
Personal Account Dealing
The Firms staff and their connected parties may buy or sell for their own account the same
securities, in which the Firm invests on behalf of clients, or buy or sell interests in funds that
the Firm manages on a discretionary basis. Personal securities transactions by employees may
raise potential conflicts of interest when such person’s trade in a security that is owned by, or
considered for purchase or sale for a client. The Code and related policies and procedures are
designed to detect and prevent such conflicts of interest and, when they do arise, to ensure
that the Firm effects transactions for clients in a manner that is consistent with the Firm’s
fiduciary duty to its clients and in accordance with applicable law. Therefore, the personal
investing activities of all employees must be conducted in a manner to avoid potential conflicts
of interest, or the appearance of potential conflicts of interest, with the Firm’s clients and the
Firm itself. The Firm maintains a strict policy whereby employees are not allowed to deal ahead
of a client. All relevant personal account transactions require prior clearance. New employees
are required to confirm that they will comply with the Firms personal account dealing policy.
Staff complete regular attestations confirming their compliance with the personal account
dealing rules. The Risk & Compliance Team carries out regular reviews of personal account
transactions to ensure that the procedures are followed and that there are no Code or other
compliance violations.
Material non-Public Information
From time to time, The Firm and its related persons may come into possession of material non-
public and other confidential information that, if disclosed, might affect an investor’s decision
to buy, sell or hold a security. Under applicable law, the Firm and its related persons may be
prohibited from improperly disclosing or using such information for their personal benefit or for
the benefit of any other person, regardless of whether such other person is a client.
Accordingly, should such persons come into possession of material non-public or other
confidential information with respect to any company, they may be prohibited from
communicating such information to, or using such information for, the benefit of their
respective clients, and have no obligation or responsibility to disclose such information to, nor
responsibility to use such information for the benefit of their clients. The Firm has adopted a
Market Abuse (Inside Information) policy in accordance with Advisers Act Section 204A which
establishes procedures reasonably designed to prevent the misuse of material non-public
information by the Firm and its officers, directors, trustees and employees, and to aid the Firm
in detecting and imposing sanctions against insider trading. Among other things, the policy
prohibits dealing for client accounts, funds or personal account transactions while in
possession of material non
public information.
-
Where employees do come into possession of material non-public or other confidential
information on a company, they are required to declare this to the Risk & Compliance Team.
Where appropriate a restriction is placed on the dealing system so that no trades can be placed
for client portfolios or funds. The Risk & Compliance Team maintains a restricted securities
list. This prevents anyone from trading on material non-public information on personal
transactions. The Risk & Compliance Team maintain a log of all those who have been made
aware of material non-public information. The Firm has implemented a system to review all
trades, including personal transactions, for potential market abuse.
Brokers and Custodians
Unless a client directs us to use a specific broker or custodian, the Firm will select brokers to
execute securities transactions on client portfolios based on the full range and quality of the
broker’s services, including but not limited to execution capabilities, commission rates, their
capability in a particular market, region or security, communications and administrative
functions. We may have other business dealings with brokers that we use to transact
securities. For example, we may own shares of the broker or its affiliates in client portfolios, we
may provide investment management services to the broker or its affiliates, or the broker may
refer potential clients to us. It should be noted that the Firm does not receive soft dollar credits
or commissions from brokers. We pay brokers directly for any research they provide and we
regard this as a separate service from brokerage.
Trading
The Firm does not engage in cross-trades across client portfolios.
The Firm may recommend that a portfolio invest a portion in a suitable fund for which it acts as
investment adviser. In such a case, the investment fund must also meet the client’s investment
objective and be suitable for their particular risk profile and circumstances. This practice gives
rise to an additional conflict of interest because the Firm is paid an asset-based fee. The Firm
does not charge the client fund fees in this case – they only pay one portfolio fee.
The Firm does not trade in securities as principal, or effect transactions for any person other
than for a client. Securities are transacted with approved brokers or custodians acting as an
agent on behalf of a client.
For non-discretionary accounts, client approval must be obtained before trading. The investment
manager must assess, on a case-by-case basis and in line with the Firm’s established
procedures, whether a proposed trade is suitable for a particular account, before any client is
included in a bulk order. If the client provides instructions beyond the cut-off point, or does
not provide any instructions, but later wishes to engage in a recommended trade, it will be
necessary for that client to trade outside of the bulk order.
Aggregation of Orders
Investment decisions may be implemented in more than one account in similar mandates at
the same time. In line with the principle of treating clients fairly we must not show any bias to
one client over another when aggregating or allocating orders. The Firm follows strict criteria
where a client order is aggregated with that of another client (e.g. in a portfolio model change),
or where the Firm exercises discretion in relation to allocation (e.g. in relation to allocation of
shares in a fund raising). In summary:
The aggregation of orders and transactions will likely work overall to the advantage of any
client whose order is to be aggregated.
The Firm must disclose to each client whose order is to be aggregated that the effect of
aggregation may work to their disadvantage in relation to a particular order.
There are exceptions that may prevent the Firm from aggregating client orders:
Where a transaction has been determined by the Firms Investment Committee not to be
predictably advantageous if implemented for some clients before or after other clients.
Where the Fund or Investment Manager is delaying a final trading decision.
Where client transactions are implemented by a third party, such as the client’s chosen
custodian, such trades cannot be aggregated with trades implemented by the Firm.
ITEM 12 - BROKERAGE PRACTICES
The Firm works with several brokers across all asset classes to ensure the best possible result
for clients when executing orders. When deciding which broker to place a particular trade with
on behalf of a client, the Firm seeks best execution and considers several factors, described in
more detail below.
The Firm is required to take all sufficient steps to obtain, when executing orders, the best
possible results for our clients considering the execution factors. The execution factors to be
considered are price, costs, speed, likelihood of execution and settlement, size, nature or any
other consideration relevant to the execution of an order. When executing client orders, we will
consider the following criteria for determining the relative importance of the factors:
The characteristics of the client
The characteristics of the client order
The characteristics of financial instruments that are the subject of that order
The characteristics of the execution venues to which that order can be directed
For clarification, the best execution rules apply when executing orders or placing orders with
or transmitting orders to other entities to execute.
We do not treat Retail Clients and Professional Clients differently, as the nature of services we
offer across our client base is typically the same. As a result, for most of our clients the best
possible result will generally be determined in terms of the total consideration for the
transaction, representing the price of the financial instrument and the cost related to
execution. However, speed of execution, likelihood of execution, timeliness of settlement, the
size and nature of the order and market impact may affect the eventual transaction price. While
price is often the most important execution factor, there will be situations when this is not the
priority when executing a trade:
For less liquid stocks, the likelihood of execution and provision of liquidity may be more
important than price
When raising cash to fund portfolio outflows, speed may take priority over price
The volatility of price may make timeliness a greater priority
The choice of execution may be limited to one venue for certain instruments
After weighing the totality of these factors, the Firm will select the broker that, in its opinion, is
best suited to execute that particular trade.
Soft Dollar Benefits - The Firm does not receive any soft dollars or commissions and does not
receive any referral or incentives to trade with any specific brokers.
Directed Brokerage - When we follow the client’s instructions to trade through a custodian or
broker they have chosen, then our best execution obligations to the client will be limited as we
have no discretion to influence the trading outcome. We may be unable to achieve the most
favourable execution of client transactions, and it may cost clients more money. For example,
in a directed brokerage account, the client may pay higher brokerage commissions because
we may not be able to aggregate orders to reduce transaction costs, or the client may receive
less favourable prices. We do not routinely recommend, request or require that a client direct
us to execute transactions through a specified broker-dealer.
Trade Aggregation and Allocation - The Firm has an Order Allocation and Aggregation Policy
and procedures that ensure all clients are treated fairly in these circumstances. The aim of our
allocation approach is to create fair and objective allocation of executions to all portfolios over
time. Further detail on this is set out in Item 11: Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client
Transactions and Personal Trading.
ITEM 13 - REVIEW OF ACCOUNTS
Client accounts (portfolios) are subject to a number of periodic suitability reviews and undergo
an additional off-cycle review if a “trigger” event occurs.
All client portfolios will be reviewed for suitability on at least an annual basis. This includes
establishing whether the clients’ personal circumstances have changed and their investment
objectives are reviewed in case any adjustments should be made to the portfolio because of a
change in risk appetite or other circumstance. Clients are responsible for updating the portfolio
manager on any changes
in their circumstances. Every relevant client meeting or
communication is recorded.
Client Relationship Managers know their clients well and review their portfolio holdings and
asset allocations regularly, including on a quarterly basis when written valuation reports are
sent out, which include a list of holdings, trades and valuation. In addition, a contract note is
sent to clients for non-discretionary portfolios.
Additional reviews will usually be conducted if a “trigger” event occurs. Trigger events can be
but are not limited to the following: a change in personal circumstances (e.g. marriage /
divorce, change to country of domicile), a change in corporate directors / trustees, or a
restructuring.
ITEM 14 - CLIENT REFERRALS AND OTHER COMPENSATION
-
The Firm generally does not receive remuneration or other economic benefits from third parties
discretionary investment management
in connection with the provision of discretionary or non
services to its clients. However, in certain circumstances, the Firm may receive or pay
referral
based compensation in connection with the introduction of prospective clients, as
described below.
-
The Stonehage Fleming Group has arrangements with certain affiliated entities (see Item 10)
and, in limited cases, with unaffiliated third parties pursuant to which prospective clients may
be introduced to the Firm (or vice versa) where it is appropriate for the client. Remuneration
may sometimes be paid in connection with introductions from affiliated entities. If
remuneration were to be paid in respect of an affiliated introduction, this would be fully
disclosed to the client prior to the commencement of services.
-
In addition, the Stonehage Fleming Group has an agreement with a third
party family office in
the United States under which the Firm and the third party may introduce prospective clients
to one another with a view to the provision of investment management services, where
appropriate for the client. The Firm may receive remuneration in connection with such
introductions, and any such remuneration is fully disclosed to the client.
In the United Kingdom and South Africa, the Firm also has a limited number of relationships
with regulated introducers under which the Firm may pay compensation for client referrals. The
Firm only deals with introducers who are appropriately regulated in their jurisdiction, and any
fees payable to such introducers are disclosed to clients.
Introducer compensation, where applicable, is typically structured as a percentage of the
Firms management fee and is paid directly by the Firm. No referral or introducer fees are paid
from client portfolios.
These arrangements give rise to a conflict of interest because the relevant firms and their
personnel may have a financial incentive to recommend the Firm.
The Firm has adopted policies and procedures designed to manage and mitigate these
conflicts and to ensure compliance with its duty to act in the best interests of its clients.
ITEM 15 - CUSTODY
-
The Firm does not take physical custody of any client assets. The assets within client’s
portfolios are generally held by the client’s own custodians and are registered in the
custodian’s nominee name. The custodian typically has the power to appoint a sub
custodian.
The ownership of cash and equity holdings is segregated from the custodian’s own account,
and registered, and held separately in trust for the beneficiary (the client).
The Firm does not have access to the client’s assets (other than for trading or for the deduction
of its fees) or any authority to register or instruct custodians to register securities or transfer
cash into its own name or into another nominee name.
Although the Firm does not have physical possession of client assets, where the Firm’s clients
permit or instruct it to deduct its management fees directly from their custodial accounts, the
SEC deems the Firm to have custody over the assets of those clients for regulatory purposes.
For US based clients, the custodian will be a qualified custodian.
For US based clients, if the Firm is deemed to have custody over the client’s portfolio, the client
will generally receive account statements from the qualified custodian (on a quarterly basis)
indicating the amounts of any funds or securities in the portfolio as of the end of the statement
period and any transactions in the account during the statement period. The client should
carefully review these statements. Additionally, the client should contact the Firm immediately
if they do not receive account statements from their custodian on at least a quarterly basis.
Where the Firms fees are deducted from the client’s custodial account, the statements will
show those deductions, among other information. As described in Item 13: Review of
Accounts, the Firm also provides statements or reports to its clients. Clients should compare
the account statements they receive from their custodians with the statements that they
receive from the Firm and alert the Firm to any differences.
The Firm does not utilise any Stonehage Fleming Group affiliated custodian for US-based
clients. For certain non-U.S. clients, the Firm may suggest affiliated custodians within the
Stonehage Fleming Group.
Custodian directed by the Firm
From time-to-time the Firm will suggest (direct) custodians to certain clients, including (with
respect to non-U.S. clients) another entity owned by the Stonehage Fleming Group, called
Stonehage Fleming Dealing and Treasury Services (Jersey) Limited. This recommendation may
give rise to a potential conflict of interest.
Some of the directed custodians will carry out all dealing for clients, either acting as broker as
well as custodian or routing the order to their universe of brokers. When deciding which
custodian to suggest, the Firm will consider the financial standing of the custodian, dealing
connectivity, reporting capabilities, tax reporting capabilities, risk and compliance
considerations, and account size. Clients have a contractual relationship with the custodian
and will be responsible for their appointment.
Client Appointed Custodian
The client can appoint a Custodian. The Firm will not undertake due diligence on the custodian
for the client, and the client must be satisfied that the custodian meets their needs and that
they have understood any risks. The client will need to ensure that the Firm is given a mandate
to provide instructions to the Custodian on the client’s behalf.
Custodians are responsible for carrying out all FX and FX forward transactions on behalf of
clients.
It should be noted that US based clients will typically hold assets with US based custodians.
ITEM 16 - INVESTMENT DISCRETION
As agreed with the client, the portfolio is managed on a discretionary or non-discretionary basis
in line with the client’s investment objectives and risk profile, both of which are assessed at the
start of the relationship and periodically thereafter. In either case, clients are able at any time
to place investment restrictions and guidelines on their portfolio. The clients’ individual
investment management agreement and/or any side letters govern the Firm’s discretionary
authority and limitations with its clients. In addition, various securities and tax laws, as well as
internal compliance policies may impose additional restrictions on the investments that may
be made by clients. Any of the above limitations may impact the potential returns of client
portfolios.
ITEM 17 - VOTING CLIENT SECURITIES
Discretionary Portfolios
The Firm’s GBI team has a Voting and Engagement Policy that describes how it integrates
shareholder engagement into its investment strategy, and its approach to monitoring and
conduct, dialogue with investee companies, exercise of voting and other rights, shareholder
cooperation, conflicts of interest and record keeping. This Policy applies to the shares of
companies (securities) traded on a regulated market and managed by the Firm on a
discretionary basis for the GBI Strategy (it does not apply to non-discretionary portfolios). A
copy of the Policy is available to all clients or prospective clients on request. The Firm’s
contact information appears on the cover page of this Brochure. A copy of the Policy can also
be obtained on the Firm’s website: Voting-and-Engagement-Stonehage-Fleming-Global-Best-
Ideas-Equity-Fund-Engagement-and-Voting-Policy-2025.pdf
For the GBI public equity strategy, when deciding how to vote the Firm will consider its Voting
Policy and the recommendation of the Management Team of the investee company. The Firm
will also consult third party information sources including the services of proxy advisors, such
as Glass Lewis. All available information will be considered to draw in-house conclusions on
each vote and the team will not simply default and follow either Management Team of the
investee company or proxy advisor recommendations. The cost of information for these votes,
including the use of proxy advisors, is paid for by the Firm. The cost of executing votes is borne
by the client as part of their custody fee. Clients are generally not permitted to direct how the
Firm votes specific securities. Clients can request information on of how the Firm has voted on
their behalf. The Firm does not reach out to clients and ask them how to vote.
The Firm may encounter conflicts of interest related to its stewardship activities. For the GBI
Strategy, issues may arise where the Firm determines that there is a material conflict of
interest. In such instances the Firm will notify the specific client of its specific voting intentions.
If there is disagreement between the Firms voting intention and the wishes of the individual
client, the Firm will abstain from the specific vote for that specific client. The Firm will also
consult the Stonehage Fleming Group conflicts interest policy and may take further action if
required.
Non-Discretionary Portfolios
The Firm does not have proxy authority for non-discretionary portfolios. Non-discretionary
clients should receive proxy solicitations from their custodian or transfer agent. In such
situations, the Firm will not provide any advice on proxy voting.
ITEM 18 - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The Firm does not have any financial condition that is reasonably likely to impair its ability to
meet its contractual and regulatory commitments to clients. The Firm does not require and
does not accept pre-payments of fees. The Firm is not subject to any bankruptcy proceeding
nor has it been at any time since the Firm was incorporated in 2001.