MLC Asset Management Appoints Ninety One for Strategy

The firm has selected Ninety One to oversee its active emerging markets equity portfolio for Australian clients.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Investing

MLC Asset Management Appoints Ninety One for Strategy

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MLC Asset Management has appointed Ninety One to manage its emerging markets equity strategy following a strategic review of the asset class. The move aims to maintain positive investment outcomes for its members and clients by leveraging Ninety One's specialist expertise.

Why it matters

The appointment follows an evaluation of the emerging markets equity landscape by MLC Asset Management. The firm seeks to bolster its investment capabilities through a partnership with an established manager in the sector.

Ninety One manages $345.5 billion in total assets as of 30 September 2026. The firm brings 35 years of dedicated experience in emerging markets to the new mandate.

The players

MLC Asset Management

An Australian investment firm that manages assets for members and clients.

Ninety One

A global asset management firm with 35 years of experience in emerging markets.

Archie Hart

A co-manager of the 4Factor Emerging Markets Equity strategy.

Varun Laijawalla

A co-manager of the 4Factor Emerging Markets Equity strategy.

The details

The 4Factor Emerging Markets Equity strategy employs an active approach to stock selection, balancing exposure across growth, quality, value, and momentum factors. The strategy focuses on companies listed or headquartered within emerging markets.

Timeline

  1. 30 September 2026: Ninety One reported $345.5 billion in total assets under management.

Market Dynamics

This mandate follows the methodology of the 4Factor Emerging Markets Equity strategy to navigate evolving global trade conditions. It mirrors a broader trend of institutional investors seeking specialised active management to mitigate volatility in emerging markets.

This appointment may change the underlying management of the emerging markets equity funds held by MLC members. Investors should monitor fund documents for potential adjustments to investment strategies or risk profiles.

The takeaway

Institutional investors frequently conduct portfolio reviews to align with specialised asset managers. Maintaining diversified exposure through experienced firms is a key strategy for managing volatility in emerging markets.

Further reading

For more on how portfolio changes affect your assets, visit the Australia Investing section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Financial Standard.

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Is now a good time to increase your investment exposure to emerging market stocks?