Stockholm (NordSIP) – On November 13, Neuberger Berman announced that the firm’s first Japan-based equities team will manage a “Japan Equity Engagement Strategy” seeking attractive returns through active engagement and constructive dialogue with Japanese small/mid-cap companies. Keita Kubota, who recently joined Neuberger Berman from Aberdeen Standard Investments, will lead the new team.
“We look forward to the further expansion of ESG investing in Japan as companies have increased their awareness of corporate governance and other material factors. We think encouraging Japanese companies to improve their ESG factors through our active engagement can generate superior returns. Mr. Kubota and his team are bottom-up stock pickers with a focus on in-depth proprietary research,” said Ryo Ohira, Head of Neuberger Berman East Asia in a press release. “They are active, long-term investors who engage deeply and frequently with company management. Most importantly, Mr. Kubota has helped deliver long-term performance for his clients – which is our firm’s mission.”
“We’re happy to welcome Mr. Kubota and team and know they are a fit our firm’s culture and core strengths. The group expands our global platform, bringing another long-term market perspective with a focus on active/ESG engagement in Japan, the third largest equity market in the world. We look forward to their capabilities helping client globally,” said Joseph Amato, President and Chief Investment Officer, Neuberger Berman.
“We expect to have the Japan Equity Engagement Strategy available for investors starting in early 2020,” a spoke person commented.
According to the press release, Neuberger Berman currently manages over $53 billion in client assets in Japan. For largely an institutional client base, the firm manages fixed income, alternatives and equity portfolios.
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