---
title: UK asset managers media reputation tracker – August 2026
canonical_url: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08
type: dataset
publisher: Omniscan
sector: UK Asset Managers
period: August 2026
coverage_start: '2026-08-01'
coverage_end: '2026-08-31'
date_published: '2026-09-01'
last_updated: '2026-09-01'
organisations: 11
articles_analysed: 863
mentions: 672
data_download: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/data.json
summary: BlackRock had the highest average monthly share of coverage (34.5%) among
  11 asset managers in UK earned media from 1 August 2026 to 31 August 2026, ahead
  of Schroders (15.3%) and M&G (9.4%).
---

# UK asset managers media reputation tracker: August 2026 (1 August 2026–31 August 2026)

> BlackRock had the highest average monthly share of coverage (34.5%) among 11 asset managers in UK earned media from 1 August 2026 to 31 August 2026, ahead of Schroders (15.3%) and M&G (9.4%). Ninety One had the most favourable net tone (+67). Omniscan analysed 863 articles containing 672 mentions of the asset managers tracked.

Interactive version: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08

## UK Asset Managers ranking by share of coverage, August 2026

| Rank | Organisation | Average monthly share of coverage | Mentions | Positive | Neutral | Negative | Net tone |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | BlackRock | 34.5% | 232 | 40% | 52% | 8% | +33 |
| 2 | Schroders | 15.3% | 103 | 37% | 61% | 2% | +35 |
| 3 | M&G | 9.4% | 63 | 44% | 37% | 19% | +25 |
| 4 | Aberdeen Group | 8.3% | 56 | 43% | 45% | 12% | +30 |
| 4 | Baillie Gifford | 8.3% | 56 | 23% | 43% | 34% | −11 |
| 6 | Invesco | 5.5% | 37 | 51% | 38% | 11% | +41 |
| 7 | Columbia Threadneedle | 5.1% | 34 | 38% | 56% | 6% | +32 |
| 8 | Janus Henderson | 4.3% | 29 | 34% | 59% | 7% | +28 |
| 9 | Ninety One | 4.0% | 27 | 74% | 19% | 7% | +67 |
| 10 | Jupiter | 3.7% | 25 | 64% | 36% | 0% | +64 |
| 11 | Liontrust | 1.5% | 10 | 10% | 40% | 50% | −40 |

## Asset managers in detail

### BlackRock

**BlackRock led as private credit and digital assets reshaped coverage**

BlackRock ranked 1st of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (34.5%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 232 mentions and a net tone of +33.

August retained the monthly lead despite a 7.3-point share decline, while tokenised European money-market funds, bitcoin access and the proposed sale of BlackRock TCP Capital loans kept products and private credit prominent. BlackRock is participating in Nvidia's $500 billion AI-infrastructure financing effort and separately agreed to finance and take a majority stake in a Texas data centre with Meta. BlackRock's IBIT bitcoin ETF has reached approximately $60 billion in assets and is reported to be expanding access by reducing its direct-swap minimum from $25 million to $1 million. The article says strong ETF inflows and self-custody concerns are supporting demand for the fund. BlackRock reported $15.3 trillion of AUM, with second-quarter AUM up 22%, revenue up 31% and adjusted operating income up 42%. The article highlights growth in alternatives, active strategies and technology revenue.

Key messages:

- BlackRock is participating in Nvidia's $500 billion AI-infrastructure financing effort and separately agreed to finance and take a majority stake in a Texas data centre with Meta.
- BlackRock's IBIT bitcoin ETF has reached approximately $60 billion in assets and is reported to be expanding access by reducing its direct-swap minimum from $25 million to $1 million. The article says strong ETF inflows and self-custody concerns are supporting demand for the fund.
- BlackRock reported $15.3 trillion of AUM, with second-quarter AUM up 22%, revenue up 31% and adjusted operating income up 42%. The article highlights growth in alternatives, active strategies and technology revenue.
- Bloomberg's ETF newsletter examines how BlackRock and ETF structures have helped bring Bitcoin into mainstream finance. It frames institutional adoption of digital assets as an expanding trend.
- BlackRock is presented as a major capital partner in Nvidia's AI-infrastructure financing initiative. The partnership is described as expanding BlackRock's ability to connect long-term capital with essential infrastructure.

Leading themes:

- Products & Fund Launches: 25.4% of BlackRock's coverage (theme index 1.4, net tone +54)
- Fund Flows & AUM: 25.0% of BlackRock's coverage (theme index 2.97, net tone +53)
- Mandates, Partnerships & Investment Activity: 18.5% of BlackRock's coverage (theme index 5.83, net tone +7)

Notable positive coverage:

- 10 August 2026, bbc.com: [Nvidia gets $500bn from major banks for AI build out](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c78gr0jv0mdo). BlackRock is participating in Nvidia's $500 billion AI-infrastructure financing effort and separately agreed to finance and take a majority stake in a Texas data centre with Meta.
- 25 August 2026, finance.yahoo.com: [BlackRock Helps Pull More Bitcoin Wealth Deeper Into Wall Street](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/crypto/articles/blackrock-helps-pull-more-bitcoin-151338436.html). BlackRock reduced the minimum transaction size for investors converting Bitcoin into ETF shares through in-kind creations from $25 million to $1 million. Its IBIT spot-Bitcoin ETF has facilitated more than $5 billion of such conversions, according to BlackRock.
- 14 August 2026, aol.com: [Larry Fink's BlackRock Just Crossed $15.3 Trillion in Assets. Here's What That Scale Actually Earns.](https://www.aol.com/articles/larry-finks-blackrock-just-crossed-095200000.html). BlackRock reported $15.3 trillion of AUM, with second-quarter AUM up 22%, revenue up 31% and adjusted operating income up 42%. The article highlights growth in alternatives, active strategies and technology revenue.

Notable negative coverage:

- 24 August 2026, bloomberg.com: [BlackRock Pitches TCP Private Credit Assets to Rival Managers](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-08-24/blackrock-pitches-tcp-private-credit-assets-to-rival-managers). BlackRock is reportedly seeking buyers for the $671 million loan portfolio held by TCP Capital Corp. as it restructures the troubled private-credit vehicle.
- 19 August 2026, bloomberg.com: [Balyasny Hires Former BlackRock Money Manager to Head Credit Pod](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-08-19/balyasny-hires-former-blackrock-money-manager-to-head-credit-pod). Balyasny Asset Management hired Daniel Chen after nearly three decades at BlackRock, where he was most recently a money manager.
- 14 August 2026, forbes.com: ['Leap Frog' -- Goldman's $2.25 Billion Bitcoin Shock Rattles BlackRock](https://www.forbes.com/sites/boazsobrado/2026/08/14/leap-frog-goldmans-225-billion-bitcoin-shock-rattles-blackrock/). Goldman Sachs' planned acquisition of NEOS Investments is presented as a way to compete in bitcoin-income ETFs against BlackRock's BITA fund. The article notes BlackRock's fund is far smaller than NEOS's BTCI product.

- [BlackRock deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=blackrock&view=deep-dive)
- [BlackRock PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/blackrock.pdf)

### Schroders

**Schroders ranked second as takeover coverage gave way to products**

Schroders ranked 2nd of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (15.3%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 103 mentions and a net tone of +35.

Its share then rose to 15.3% in August, still ranking second, as product reporting led through approval of a tokenised money-market fund share class, alongside venture investment and fund-policy developments. August 2026: Schroders secured approval for a tokenised share class using J.P. Schroders participated in Blackbird Ventures' A$1.05bn fundraising, reported as the largest financing for an Australian venture-capital firm. Schroders Greencoat executives argue that energy-transition infrastructure opportunities remain attractive in Europe and North America despite diverging policies. The commentary highlights Schroders Greencoat's renewable infrastructure investment experience and scale. Nuveen's CEO says the firm remains open to further acquisitions after its proposed purchase of Schroders. He describes the transaction as a perfect match and expects completion later in the year. Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust has appointed Peter Lowe as fund manager. He will work with Bradley Biggins following the proposed £404m Picton Property Income acquisition with LondonMetric.

Key messages:

- Schroders received Central Bank of Ireland approval for a tokenised share class in a US-dollar money market fund. The launch uses J.P. Morgan's Kinexys tokenisation platform to support digital transactions.
- Schroders participated in Blackbird Ventures' A$1.05bn fundraising, reported as the largest financing for an Australian venture-capital firm.
- Schroders Greencoat executives argue that energy-transition infrastructure opportunities remain attractive in Europe and North America despite diverging policies. The commentary highlights Schroders Greencoat's renewable infrastructure investment experience and scale.
- Nuveen's CEO says the firm remains open to further acquisitions after its proposed purchase of Schroders. He describes the transaction as a perfect match and expects completion later in the year.
- Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust has appointed Peter Lowe as fund manager. He will work with Bradley Biggins following the proposed £404m Picton Property Income acquisition with LondonMetric.

Leading themes:

- Products & Fund Launches: 31.1% of Schroders's coverage (theme index 1.65, net tone +56)
- Mergers, Acquisitions & Consolidation: 17.5% of Schroders's coverage (theme index 3.01, net tone +22)
- Leadership & Fund-Manager Moves: 15.5% of Schroders's coverage (theme index 1.47, net tone +13)

Notable positive coverage:

- 10 August 2026, privatebankerinternational.com: [Schroders gets Irish nod for tokenised money market fund](https://www.privatebankerinternational.com/news/schroders-irish-nod-tokenised-market-fund/). Schroders received Central Bank of Ireland approval for a tokenised share class in a US-dollar money market fund. The launch uses J.P. Morgan's Kinexys tokenisation platform to support digital transactions.
- 6 August 2026, citywire.com: [Schroders gets green light for first tokenised money market fund](https://citywire.com/wealth-manager/news/schroders-gets-green-light-for-first-tokenised-money-market-fund/a2495673). Schroders received approval for its first tokenised share class in a US-dollar money market fund. The launch uses J.P. Morgan's blockchain platform.
- 25 August 2026, bloomberg.com: [Morgan Stanley, Schroders Join Record Funding for Canva's Backer](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-08-25/morgan-stanley-schroders-join-record-funding-for-canva-s-backer). Schroders participated in Blackbird Ventures' A$1.05bn fundraising, reported as the largest financing for an Australian venture-capital firm.

Notable negative coverage:

- 21 August 2026, finance.yahoo.com: [Fidelity weighs exit from China fund business - report](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/fidelity-weighs-exit-china-fund-115614879.html). Fidelity International is reportedly considering closing its China fund business because of weak scale and competition. The article notes that Schroders has agreed to exit its wholly owned China fund business and transfer three funds to Neuberger Berman.
- 7 August 2026, lse.co.uk: [Schroder European Real Estate shareholders to vote on wind-down plan](https://www.lse.co.uk/news/schroder-european-real-estate-shareholders-to-vote-on-wind-down-plan-5sw434uraxbjhdh.html). Shareholders in Schroder European Real Estate Investment Trust will vote on a managed wind-down intended to address its persistent discount to net asset value. The proposed realisation process could take two to three years before voluntary liquidation.

- [Schroders deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=schroders&view=deep-dive)
- [Schroders PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/schroders.pdf)

### M&G

**M&G broadens its profile after an uneven start**

M&G ranked 3rd of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (9.4%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 63 mentions and a net tone of +25.

In August 2026, M&G recorded 63 mentions, 9.4% of cohort coverage and rank #3. In August, M&G’s share was 9.4% and it ranked third as stories ranged from a first social-rent investment and an £85m bulk-annuity deal to Japanese-equities recruitment, investment views and a broker downgrade. August 2026: share rose 4.1 points to 9.4% and rank improved to third; contemporaneous developments included M&G Real Estate’s first social-rent investment and Ross Sterling’s Japanese-equities appointment. August 2026: M&G Real Estate made its first social-rent investment through the Affordable Living Fund — IPE Real Assets. M&G appointed Ross Sterling as deputy portfolio manager for its flagship Japanese equities strategy. The appointment strengthens its Asia Pacific equity team.

Key messages:

- M&G appointed Ross Sterling as deputy portfolio manager for its flagship Japanese equities strategy. The appointment strengthens its Asia Pacific equity team.
- M&G Credit Income Investment Trust issued 250,000 new shares at 91.70p to meet investor demand. The issuance increased its ordinary-share count and voting rights to 209,543,740.
- M&G Real Estate has made its first investment in social rent through the acquisition of a UK affordable-housing portfolio. The transaction was completed via the M&G Affordable Living Fund.
- M&G completed an £85m bulk purchase annuity transaction for the Altro Pension Scheme, covering 740 members and dependants. The deal used M&G's BPA Plus arrangement, which offers potential discretionary bonuses through its with-profits fund.
- JPMorgan downgraded M&G while arguing that Aviva and Standard Life offer stronger free-cash-flow yields and capital-return potential. The article also cites competitive pressures and weaker new-business margins in UK pension risk transfer.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Share Price: 30.2% of M&G's coverage (theme index 3.83, net tone −47)
- Leadership & Fund-Manager Moves: 23.8% of M&G's coverage (theme index 2.38, net tone +67)
- Products & Fund Launches: 15.9% of M&G's coverage (theme index 0.75, net tone +40)

Notable positive coverage:

- 12 August 2026, citywire.com: [M&G adds manager to Carl Vine's flagship Japan strategy](https://citywire.com/wealth-manager/news/m-and-g-adds-manager-to-carl-vines-flagship-japan-strategy/a2495946). M&G added a deputy portfolio manager to Carl Vine's Japan strategy team. The appointment concerns M&G's Japan equity funds.
- 28 August 2026, theglobeandmail.com: [M&G Credit Income Investment Trust Issues New Shares to Meet Investor Demand](https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/markets-news/Tipranks/4322358/mg-credit-income-investment-trust-issues-new-shares-to-meet-investor-demand/). M&G Credit Income Investment Trust issued 250,000 new shares at 91.70p to meet investor demand. The issuance increased its ordinary-share count and voting rights to 209,543,740.
- 12 August 2026, theglobeandmail.com: [M&G Credit Income Investment Trust Expands Share Capital to Meet Investor Demand](https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/markets-news/Tipranks/3807148/mg-credit-income-investment-trust-expands-share-capital-to-meet-investor-demand/). M&G Credit Income Investment Trust issued 400,000 new ordinary shares to meet continuing investor demand. The issuance increased its total shares and voting rights to 208.9 million.

Notable negative coverage:

- 13 August 2026, sharecast.com: [JPMorgan upgrades Aviva, downgrades L&G and M&G](https://www.sharecast.com/news/broker-recommendations/jpmorgan-upgrades-aviva-downgrades-lg-and-mg--23257211.html). JPMorgan downgraded M&G while arguing that Aviva and Standard Life offer stronger free-cash-flow yields and capital-return potential. The article also cites competitive pressures and weaker new-business margins in UK pension risk transfer.
- 11 August 2026, marketwatch.com: [M&G falls Tuesday, underperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/m-g-falls-tuesday-underperforms-market-3ed799d2-85c517cc53f9). M&G shares fell 3.31% to £3.50 in a weak market session, underperforming the FTSE 100. The shares closed 4.55% below their 52-week high.
- 18 August 2026, ftadviser.com: [Have thematic funds fallen out of favour with wealth managers?](https://www.ftadviser.com/content/b81be688-48aa-425a-a661-fda14b557d9c). M&G has closed three thematic funds, prompting discussion of whether thematic funds are falling out of favour with wealth managers.

- [M&G deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=mg&view=deep-dive)
- [M&G PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/mg.pdf)

### Aberdeen Group

**Aberdeen’s visibility rose mid-year before retreating to fourth**

Aberdeen Group ranked 4th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (8.3%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 56 mentions and a net tone of +30.

August coverage shifted towards fund performance and consolidation, including the expected £200m Airband loss and a proposed real-estate fund combination exceeding £700m. August 2026: Reuters reported that an Aberdeen infrastructure fund was expected to incur an approximately £200m loss after Airband collapsed. Aberdeen provided around £72 million of a £129 million refinancing for flexible-workspace provider Office Space in Town. The financing extends Aberdeen’s seven-year relationship with the company. Aberdeen Group shares rose 1.4% to £2.46 on 24 August, outperforming the FTSE 100's 0.35% gain. The shares remained 7.09% below their 52-week high. Aberdeen Investments has proposed merging its Aberdeen Real Estate Fund and Aberdeen Global Real Estate Fund to create a global real-estate strategy with more than £700m under management. The proposed November 2026 transaction is subject to investor approval and is intended to simplify the real-estate fund range.

Key messages:

- Aberdeen provided around £72 million of a £129 million refinancing for flexible-workspace provider Office Space in Town. The financing extends Aberdeen’s seven-year relationship with the company.
- Aberdeen Group shares rose 1.4% to £2.46 on 24 August, outperforming the FTSE 100's 0.35% gain. The shares remained 7.09% below their 52-week high.
- Aberdeen Investments has proposed merging its Aberdeen Real Estate Fund and Aberdeen Global Real Estate Fund to create a global real-estate strategy with more than £700m under management. The proposed November 2026 transaction is subject to investor approval and is intended to simplify the real-estate fund range.
- Aberdeen Asian Income Fund reported a 30.9% share-price total return and 28% NAV return in the first half of 2026, driven largely by technology and AI holdings. The trust also broadened its portfolio and maintained an enhanced dividend policy.
- Aberdeen is expected to take an approximately £200 million hit in an infrastructure fund after broadband provider Airband entered administration. Aberdeen said it ceased further funding after reviewing returns and funding requirements, while maintaining that the diversified fund should still generate positive overall returns.

Leading themes:

- Fund Performance & Ratings: 28.6% of Aberdeen Group's coverage (theme index 2.35, net tone +19)
- Mergers, Acquisitions & Consolidation: 21.4% of Aberdeen Group's coverage (theme index 3.38, net tone +25)
- Products & Fund Launches: 8.9% of Aberdeen Group's coverage (theme index 0.41, net tone +40)

Notable positive coverage:

- 20 August 2026, cityam.com: [Luxury workspace firm lands £129m Aberdeen-backed refinancing](https://www.cityam.com/luxury-workspace-firm-lands-129m-aberdeen-backed-refinancing/). Aberdeen provided around £72 million of a £129 million refinancing for flexible-workspace provider Office Space in Town. The financing extends Aberdeen’s seven-year relationship with the company.
- 24 August 2026, marketwatch.com: [Aberdeen Group rallies Monday, outperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/aberdeen-group-rallies-monday-outperforms-market-7a213873-bee3d051ed37?mod=mw_quote_news). Aberdeen Group shares rose 1.4% to £2.46 on 24 August, outperforming the FTSE 100's 0.35% gain. The shares remained 7.09% below their 52-week high.
- 25 August 2026, costar.com: [News | Aberdeen proposes £700 million real estate funds merger](https://www.costar.com/article/412126650/aberdeen-proposes-700-million-real-estate-funds-merger). Aberdeen Investments is seeking investor approval to merge its real-estate funds into a flagship global hybrid property fund with more than £700 million of assets. The proposal is intended to simplify the range and improve diversification and liquidity flexibility.

Notable negative coverage:

- 28 August 2026, ft.com: [Aberdeen fund takes £200mn hit on failure of UK broadband provider](https://www.ft.com/content/d3eead8b-7b38-45bd-8fba-489d02a3e440?syn-25a6b1a6=1). An Aberdeen fund reportedly incurred a £200mn hit following the failure of a UK broadband provider.
- 28 August 2026, reuters.com: [Aberdeen fund to take $271 million hit after broadband provider Airband's collapse, source says](https://www.reuters.com/legal/transactional/aberdeen-fund-take-271-million-hit-after-broadband-provider-airbands-collapse-2026-08-28/). Aberdeen is expected to take an approximately £200 million hit in an infrastructure fund after broadband provider Airband collapsed. Aberdeen said it stopped further funding after reviewing funding needs and risk-adjusted returns.
- 6 August 2026, investorschronicle.co.uk: [How Aberdeen's new chair can unlock its complicated value](https://www.investorschronicle.co.uk/content/6bde9310-4fcb-4a8d-b03f-ed9c4d2d4262). Aberdeen's shares remain down 40% since the Standard Life-Aberdeen merger, which the article characterises as value-destructive. Its investment arm held £398bn in AUM at the half-year point despite progress under CEO Jason Windsor.

- [Aberdeen Group deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=aberdeengroup&view=deep-dive)
- [Aberdeen Group PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/aberdeengroup.pdf)

### Baillie Gifford

**Baillie Gifford’s visibility balanced recovery with renewed governance pressure**

Baillie Gifford ranked 4th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (8.3%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 56 mentions and a net tone of −11.

August restored fourth place at 8.3%, but governance returned prominently through Saba’s board campaign at Baillie Gifford US Growth Trust. August 2026: the Financial Times reported Saba’s new board battle involving Baillie Gifford. Baillie Gifford investor Paulina McPadden argues that TSMC and SK Hynix retain advanced-chip manufacturing advantages that China will struggle to replicate. Scottish Mortgage and Baillie Gifford US Growth benefited after Moderna shares surged 177% on positive cancer-trial results. The article highlights Baillie Gifford managers' conviction in Moderna and recent trust performance. Baillie Gifford-managed Scottish Mortgage rose after softer US inflation and a technology-stock rally supported its growth holdings. The trust is also continuing share buybacks to address its discount to net asset value. The article examines concentrated investment trusts and their performance, including Baillie Gifford-managed Scottish Mortgage, Edinburgh Worldwide and Baillie Gifford US Growth. It notes Scottish Mortgage returned 25.7% year to date, supported by SpaceX, while also highlighting concentration risk.

Key messages:

- Baillie Gifford investor Paulina McPadden argues that TSMC and SK Hynix retain advanced-chip manufacturing advantages that China will struggle to replicate.
- Scottish Mortgage and Baillie Gifford US Growth benefited after Moderna shares surged 177% on positive cancer-trial results. The article highlights Baillie Gifford managers' conviction in Moderna and recent trust performance.
- Baillie Gifford-managed Scottish Mortgage rose after softer US inflation and a technology-stock rally supported its growth holdings. The trust is also continuing share buybacks to address its discount to net asset value.
- The article examines concentrated investment trusts and their performance, including Baillie Gifford-managed Scottish Mortgage, Edinburgh Worldwide and Baillie Gifford US Growth. It notes Scottish Mortgage returned 25.7% year to date, supported by SpaceX, while also highlighting concentration risk.
- Baillie Gifford investment specialist Amy Leishman argues that emerging-market opportunities beyond AI and semiconductors include Vietnamese retail, Chinese autonomous driving and Argentine energy. The article presents the firm's positive investment case for selected off-benchmark companies.

Leading themes:

- Fund Performance & Ratings: 41.1% of Baillie Gifford's coverage (theme index 3.72, net tone +26)
- Investment Trust Governance & Activism: 26.8% of Baillie Gifford's coverage (theme index 16.5, net tone −73)
- Leadership & Fund-Manager Moves: 12.5% of Baillie Gifford's coverage (theme index 1.12, net tone −43)

Notable positive coverage:

- 10 August 2026, bloomberg.com: [Baillie Gifford's McPadden Backs TSMC, SK Hynix Over China Chips](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-08-10/baillie-gifford-s-mcpadden-backs-tsmc-sk-hynix-over-china-chips). Baillie Gifford investor Paulina McPadden argues that TSMC and SK Hynix retain advanced-chip manufacturing advantages that China will struggle to replicate.
- 20 August 2026, quoteddata.com: [Scottish Mortgage and Baillie Gifford US Growth reap the reward of sticking with Moderna as drug firm soars 177%](https://quoteddata.com/2026/08/scottish-mortgage-and-baillie-gifford-us-growth-reap-the-reward-of-sticking-with-moderna-as-drug-firm-soars-177/). Scottish Mortgage and Baillie Gifford US Growth benefited after Moderna shares surged 177% on positive cancer-trial results. The article highlights Baillie Gifford managers' conviction in Moderna and recent trust performance.
- 13 August 2026, proactiveinvestors.co.uk: [Scottish Mortgage climbs as cooling US inflation revives the AI trade](https://www.proactiveinvestors.co.uk/companies/news/1096989/scottish-mortgage-climbs-as-cooling-us-inflation-revives-the-ai-trade-1096989.html). Baillie Gifford-managed Scottish Mortgage rose after softer US inflation and a technology-stock rally supported its growth holdings. The trust is also continuing share buybacks to address its discount to net asset value.

Notable negative coverage:

- 25 August 2026, ft.com: [Hedge fund Saba takes on Baillie Gifford in new board battle](https://www.ft.com/content/9425f056-89c0-4a6b-80c7-0de6c527d916?syn-25a6b1a6=1). The article reports that hedge fund Saba has launched a new board battle involving Baillie Gifford. This is an investment-trust governance challenge.
- 24 August 2026, cityam.com: [Saba revives attack on Baillie Gifford trust](https://www.cityam.com/saba-revives-attack-on-baillie-gifford-trust/). Saba Capital has renewed its attempt to install directors at Baillie Gifford US Growth Trust. The coverage highlights scrutiny of the trust's performance and the possibility of a change in manager or investment policy.
- 25 August 2026, professionaladviser.com: [Saba reignites Baillie Gifford US Growth feud as it puts forward three board nominees](https://www.professionaladviser.com/news/4534763/saba-rekindles-baillie-gifford-us-growth-feud-forward-board-nominees). Saba Capital Management has again sought board changes at Baillie Gifford US Growth, nominating three directors for election at the investment trust's forthcoming AGM.

- [Baillie Gifford deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=bailliegifford&view=deep-dive)
- [Baillie Gifford PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/bailliegifford.pdf)

### Invesco

**August coverage centred on Fund Flows & AUM**

Invesco ranked 6th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (5.5%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 37 mentions and a net tone of +41.

In August 2026, Invesco recorded 37 mentions, 5.5% of cohort coverage and rank #6, with net sentiment of +41. Coverage focused on Fund Flows & AUM. August 2026: share fell 1.5 points to 5.5% and rank moved from fourth to sixth; stories included the launch of an open-architecture platform for UK wealth and institutional clients. August 2026: Invesco favoured longer-maturity Indian government bonds and anticipated support from eventual index inclusion, reported by reuters.com. Invesco's S&P 500 Equal Weight ETF surpassed $100 billion in assets after attracting more than $12 billion in net inflows during 2026. The fund has outperformed the market-weighted S&P 500 year to date amid investor concern about mega-cap concentration. Invesco India Mutual Fund has opened subscriptions for its India Pharma and Healthcare Fund. The new sector fund will be managed by Aditya Khemani and benchmarked against the BSE Healthcare TRI.

Key messages:

- Invesco's S&P 500 Equal Weight ETF surpassed $100 billion in assets after attracting more than $12 billion in net inflows during 2026. The fund has outperformed the market-weighted S&P 500 year to date amid investor concern about mega-cap concentration.
- Invesco India Mutual Fund has opened subscriptions for its India Pharma and Healthcare Fund. The new sector fund will be managed by Aditya Khemani and benchmarked against the BSE Healthcare TRI.
- Invesco promoted Clint Harris to global head of solutions and custom strategies and hired Darby Nielson as CIO of multi-asset solutions. The appointments support its expanded customised-investment platform.
- Invesco's AUM grew as rising equity markets and continued inflows supported the asset manager. The article describes its historically diversified platform and organic asset growth.
- FundCalibre added Invesco Global Equity Income Trust and Schroders’ International Biotechnology Trust to its Elite Rated list, highlighting their investment approaches and records.

Leading themes:

- Fund Flows & AUM: 29.7% of Invesco's coverage (theme index 2.25, net tone +36)
- Products & Fund Launches: 24.3% of Invesco's coverage (theme index 1.19, net tone +11)
- Fund Performance & Ratings: 18.9% of Invesco's coverage (theme index 1.43, net tone +71)

Notable positive coverage:

- 23 August 2026, cnbc.com: [Equal-weight S&P 500 is leading the 2026 market and its flagship trade just hit $100 billion](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/08/23/stocks-market-investing-sp500-spx.html). Invesco's S&P 500 Equal Weight ETF surpassed $100 billion in assets after attracting more than $12 billion in net inflows during 2026. The fund has outperformed the market-weighted S&P 500 year to date amid investor concern about mega-cap concentration.
- 19 August 2026, thepharmaletter.com: [Invesco Mutual Fund unveils Invesco India Pharma healthcare fund](https://www.thepharmaletter.com/pharma-news/invesco-mutual-fund-unveils-invesco-india-pharma-healthcare-fund). Invesco Mutual Fund launched the Invesco India Pharma and Healthcare Fund, an open-ended equity scheme focused on healthcare-related sectors. The fund aims to benefit from growth in India’s healthcare ecosystem.
- 19 August 2026, portfolio-adviser.com: [Invesco makes two hires for solutions and custom strategies platform](https://portfolio-adviser.com/invesco-makes-two-hires-for-solutions-and-custom-strategies-platform/). Invesco promoted Clint Harris to global head of solutions and custom strategies and hired Darby Nielson as CIO of multi-asset solutions. The appointments support its expanded customised-investment platform.

Notable negative coverage:

- 20 August 2026, bloomberg.com: [Invesco Slashes Fees 20% to Get Property Fund Investors to Stop Pulling Cash](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-08-20/invesco-slashes-fees-20-to-get-property-fund-investors-to-stop-pulling-cash). Invesco is cutting management fees by 20% on its $12.7 billion US core real-estate fund amid a redemption-request backlog. Investors will also be offered a discounted tender opportunity.
- 3 August 2026, finance.yahoo.com: [ETF League Tables: Invesco Loses $5.6B](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/etf-league-tables-invesco-loses-210032556.html). ETF league-table coverage reports that Invesco lost $5.6 billion in ETF flows as of August 31, 2026.

- [Invesco deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=invesco&view=deep-dive)
- [Invesco PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/invesco.pdf)

### Columbia Threadneedle

**Columbia Threadneedle broadens coverage and rises to seventh in August**

Columbia Threadneedle ranked 7th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (5.1%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 34 mentions and a net tone of +32.

August marked the clearest competitive improvement, with 34 mentions, a 5.1% share and seventh place. August 2026: share rose by 2.9 percentage points to 5.1%, volume increased by 16 to 34 and rank improved four places to seventh; stories included the UOB healthcare partnership, three London investment-team hires and the global aggregate bond-fund launch. August 2026: UOB Private Bank partnered with Columbia Threadneedle to offer clients access to Seligman’s healthcare investment capabilities — Citywire. Columbia Threadneedle broadens coverage and rises to seventh in August. CT Private Equity Trust manager Andrew Carnwath says disciplined investment in operationally strong companies is driving private-equity returns. The trust's 2025 exits achieved an average 18% premium to carrying value and about three times cost. Columbia Threadneedle launched the CT (Lux). Global Aggregate Bond fund by repositioning its Flexible Asian Bond fund into a global strategy. The fund launched with approximately $227m in AUM.

Key messages:

- CT Private Equity Trust manager Andrew Carnwath says disciplined investment in operationally strong companies is driving private-equity returns. The trust's 2025 exits achieved an average 18% premium to carrying value and about three times cost.
- Columbia Threadneedle launched the CT (Lux). Global Aggregate Bond fund by repositioning its Flexible Asian Bond fund into a global strategy. The fund launched with approximately $227m in AUM.
- Columbia Threadneedle expanded its UOB Private Bank partnership to provide Seligman Investments' healthcare long/short strategy. The partnership's strategies have attracted more than $1bn of inflows since the start of 2026.
- Columbia Threadneedle Investments appointed three professionals to London-based investment teams, covering investment-grade credit, global equities and fixed-income client portfolio management.
- Natasha Ebtehadj has rejoined Columbia Threadneedle as a global equities portfolio manager. The firm also hired two experienced fixed-income portfolio managers.

Leading themes:

- Fund Performance & Ratings: 35.3% of Columbia Threadneedle's coverage (theme index 2.85, net tone +17)
- Leadership & Fund-Manager Moves: 23.5% of Columbia Threadneedle's coverage (theme index 2.21, net tone +38)
- Products & Fund Launches: 14.7% of Columbia Threadneedle's coverage (theme index 0.7, net tone +80)

Notable positive coverage:

- 4 August 2026, trustnet.com: [Private equity isn't about 'buying the next unicorn', says Columbia Threadneedle manager](https://www.trustnet.com/news/13481570/private-equity-isnt-about-buying-the-next-unicorn-says-columbia-threadneedle-manager). CT Private Equity Trust manager Andrew Carnwath says disciplined investment in operationally strong companies is driving private-equity returns. The trust's 2025 exits achieved an average 18% premium to carrying value and about three times cost.
- 13 August 2026, portfolio-adviser.com: [Columbia Threadneedle bolsters fixed income range with fund launch](https://portfolio-adviser.com/columbia-threadneedle-bolsters-fixed-income-range-with-fund-launch/). Columbia Threadneedle launched the CT (Lux). Global Aggregate Bond fund by repositioning its Flexible Asian Bond fund into a global strategy. The fund launched with approximately $227m in AUM.
- 12 August 2026, wealthbriefing.com: [UOB Private Bank Expands Pact With Columbia Threadneedle Investments](https://www.wealthbriefing.com/html/article.php/uob-private-bank-expands-pact-with-columbia-threadneedle-investments). Columbia Threadneedle expanded its UOB Private Bank partnership to provide Seligman Investments' healthcare long/short strategy. The partnership's strategies have attracted more than $1bn of inflows since the start of 2026.

Notable negative coverage:

- 28 August 2026, investmentweek.co.uk: [CT Private Equity ready for a ‘more active exit environment’ following difficult results](https://www.investmentweek.co.uk/news/4534949/ct-private-equity-ready-active-exit-environment-following-difficult-results). Columbia Threadneedle Private Equity Trust reported a -0.2% NAV total return and a 9.3% share-price decline in the first half of 2026. The trust expects a more active private-equity exit environment after stronger realisations.

- [Columbia Threadneedle deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=columbiathreadneedle&view=deep-dive)
- [Columbia Threadneedle PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/columbiathreadneedle.pdf)

### Janus Henderson

**Takeover contest defined Janus Henderson’s first-half media profile**

Janus Henderson ranked 8th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (4.3%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 29 mentions and a net tone of +28.

August reporting added evidence from JAAA surpassing $30bn in assets, tokenised-fund liquidity arrangements and Morningstar’s upgrade of the Global Technology and Innovation Fund. August 2026: JAAA became the first CLO ETF reported to surpass $30bn in assets — Connect Money. Symbiotic and Centrifuge added instant USDC liquidity for Janus Henderson’s tokenized JAAA and JTRSY funds. The arrangement covers tokenized funds representing $1.6bn in AUM and aims to improve institutional usability. Janus Henderson agreed to acquire three Insignia Financial investment-management businesses and deepen its Australian market presence, subject to approvals. Janus Henderson manager Job Curtis received a Citywire AAA rating after the £3bn City of London Investment Trust outperformed its benchmark and peer group. Morningstar placed Janus Henderson’s $29bn AAA CLO ETF and its Bronze rating under review after manager Jessica Shill departed abruptly. The coverage raises a fund-rating concern for Janus Henderson.

Key messages:

- Symbiotic and Centrifuge added instant USDC liquidity for Janus Henderson’s tokenized JAAA and JTRSY funds. The arrangement covers tokenized funds representing $1.6bn in AUM and aims to improve institutional usability.
- Janus Henderson agreed to acquire three Insignia Financial investment-management businesses and deepen its Australian market presence, subject to approvals.
- Janus Henderson manager Job Curtis received a Citywire AAA rating after the £3bn City of London Investment Trust outperformed its benchmark and peer group.
- Janus Henderson’s JAAA became the first CLO ETF to exceed $30bn in AUM after attracting more than $5.7bn of net inflows. The article presents the fund as the world’s largest CLO ETF.
- Morningstar placed Janus Henderson’s $29bn AAA CLO ETF and its Bronze rating under review after manager Jessica Shill departed abruptly. The coverage raises a fund-rating concern for Janus Henderson.

Leading themes:

- Mergers, Acquisitions & Consolidation: 27.6% of Janus Henderson's coverage (theme index 4.13, net tone +25)
- Fund Performance & Ratings: 20.7% of Janus Henderson's coverage (theme index 1.57, net tone +17)
- Fund Flows & AUM: 13.8% of Janus Henderson's coverage (theme index 0.97, net tone +75)

Notable positive coverage:

- 19 August 2026, manilatimes.net: [Symbiotic Brings Instant Liquidity to Janus Henderson and NYLIM Tokenized Funds Representing $1.6 Billion in AUM](https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/08/19/tmt-newswire/globenewswire/symbiotic-brings-instant-liquidity-to-janus-henderson-and-nylim-tokenized-funds-representing-16-billion-in-aum/2408431). Symbiotic and Centrifuge added instant USDC liquidity for Janus Henderson’s tokenized JAAA and JTRSY funds. The arrangement covers tokenized funds representing $1.6bn in AUM and aims to improve institutional usability.
- 3 August 2026, privatebankerinternational.com: [Janus Henderson to buy three Insignia units](https://www.privatebankerinternational.com/news/janus-henderson-buy-insignia/). Janus Henderson agreed to acquire three Insignia Financial investment-management businesses and deepen its Australian market presence, subject to approvals.
- 21 August 2026, citywire.com: [City of London’s Curtis wins first ever top rating](https://citywire.com/investment-trust-insider/news/city-of-london-s-curtis-wins-first-ever-top-rating/a2496429). Janus Henderson manager Job Curtis received a Citywire AAA rating after the £3bn City of London Investment Trust outperformed its benchmark and peer group.

Notable negative coverage:

- 5 August 2026, citywire.com: [Morningstar puts $29bn Janus CLO ETF under review following abrupt manager departure](https://citywire.com/pro-buyer/news/morningstar-puts-29bn-janus-clo-etf-under-review-following-abrupt-manager-departure/a2495628). Morningstar placed Janus Henderson’s $29bn AAA CLO ETF and its Bronze rating under review after manager Jessica Shill departed abruptly. The coverage raises a fund-rating concern for Janus Henderson.
- 3 August 2026, citywire.com: [Janus credit PM to exit firm, come off $29bn CLO ETF](https://citywire.com/pro-buyer/news/janus-credit-pm-to-exit-firm-come-off-29bn-clo-etf/a2495445). Jessica Shill, co-manager of Janus Henderson's CLO ETF suite, is leaving the firm and stepping off its $29bn AA-A CLO ETF.

- [Janus Henderson deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=janushenderson&view=deep-dive)
- [Janus Henderson PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/janushenderson.pdf)

### Ninety One

**Ninety One rebuilt visibility around assets, products and private credit**

Ninety One ranked 9th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (4.0%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 27 mentions and a net tone of +67.

Ninety One's Cape Town headquarters has received a Net Zero carbon certification following a refurbishment of its Growthpoint-owned building. Ninety One said its decision to refurbish rather than relocate was informed by its net-zero ambitions. Ninety One's Cape Town headquarters has received a Net Zero carbon certification following a refurbishment of its Growthpoint-owned building. Ninety One said its decision to refurbish rather than relocate was informed by its net-zero ambitions. Ninety One clients acquired a 5.0156% beneficial interest in Remgro. The article reports Ninety One's AUM growth, return to net inflows and improved financial results in 2026. Ninety One says the current commodities upswing is structurally different from the 2000s supercycle, driven by diverse demand and constrained supply. It highlights cash-flow and valuation support for natural-resources companies.

Key messages:

- Ninety One's Cape Town headquarters has received a Net Zero carbon certification following a refurbishment of its Growthpoint-owned building. Ninety One said its decision to refurbish rather than relocate was informed by its net-zero ambitions.
- Ninety One clients acquired a 5.0156% beneficial interest in Remgro. The article reports Ninety One's AUM growth, return to net inflows and improved financial results in 2026.
- Ninety One says the current commodities upswing is structurally different from the 2000s supercycle, driven by diverse demand and constrained supply. It highlights cash-flow and valuation support for natural-resources companies.
- Ninety One says Africa's shortage of lenders creates an opportunity for its private-credit strategy to target senior credit at double-digit US-dollar returns. The article frames constrained capital availability as supportive for the manager's private-markets activity.
- Ninety One marked three global funds for improvement in its assessment of value, saying they delivered only satisfactory value.

Leading themes:

- Products & Fund Launches: 40.7% of Ninety One's coverage (theme index 2.05, net tone +100)
- Fund Flows & AUM: 18.5% of Ninety One's coverage (theme index 1.33, net tone +100)
- Leadership & Fund-Manager Moves: 11.1% of Ninety One's coverage (theme index 0.98, net tone −33)

Notable positive coverage:

- 29 August 2026, moneyweb.co.za: [Growthpoint turns Ninety One’s Cape Town HQ into a lower-carbon asset](https://www.moneyweb.co.za/investing/esg/growthpoint-turns-ninety-ones-cape-town-hq-into-a-lower-carbon-asset/). Ninety One's Cape Town headquarters has received a Net Zero carbon certification following a refurbishment of its Growthpoint-owned building. Ninety One said its decision to refurbish rather than relocate was informed by its net-zero ambitions.
- 18 August 2026, africa.businessinsider.com: [Africa’s largest private asset manager takes 5% stake in billionaire Johann Rupert’s investment empire as assets hit £171.8 billion](https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/africas-largest-private-asset-manager-takes-5-stake-in-billionaire-johann-ruperts/tx3vzep). Ninety One clients acquired a 5.0156% beneficial interest in Remgro. The article reports Ninety One's AUM growth, return to net inflows and improved financial results in 2026.
- 28 August 2026, investordaily.com.au: [Copper boom not just another commodity supercycle: Ninety One](https://www.investordaily.com.au/copper-boom-not-just-another-commodity-supercycle-ninety-one/). Ninety One says the current commodities upswing is structurally different from the 2000s supercycle, driven by diverse demand and constrained supply. It highlights cash-flow and valuation support for natural-resources companies.

Notable negative coverage:

- 17 August 2026, investmentweek.co.uk: [The latest fund-assessment news from global advisers and wealth managers - Page 1](https://www.investmentweek.co.uk/tag/fund-assessment). Ninety One marked three global funds for improvement in its assessment of value, saying they delivered only satisfactory value.
- 7 August 2026, citywire.com: [Breaking news: Ninety One's Hannes van den Berg resigns](https://citywire.com/za/news/breaking-news-ninety-ones-hannes-van-den-berg-resigns/a2495737). Ninety One fund manager Hannes van den Berg has resigned after more than nine years with the firm. He co-managed the firm's South African equity portfolios.

- [Ninety One deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=ninetyone&view=deep-dive)
- [Ninety One PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/ninetyone.pdf)

### Jupiter

**Jupiter’s visibility broadened beyond results into investment performance**

Jupiter ranked 10th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (3.7%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 25 mentions and a net tone of +64.

August recorded a similar share at 3.7%, while coverage included the Signature Funds rebrand, hires from Liontrust, precious-metals views and broker reporting on Jupiter’s flow recovery. August 2026: Jupiter rebranded the Merlin range as Signature Funds and expanded Merlin Select with two funds, reported by IFA Magazine. Berenberg initiated Jupiter Fund Management at buy with a 187p target, citing the diversifying CCLA acquisition, positive flows and balance-sheet strength. The broker said Jupiter has shifted from material net outflows in 2021-24 to net inflows over the past 12 months. George Ensor and Mayan Uthayakumar are set to join Jupiter Asset Management from Liontrust. Liontrust said it would announce replacements while the pair continue managing their funds for the foreseeable future. This is a daily roundup of analyst and fund-manager commentary on listed UK shares, including Jupiter. Jupiter is covered as a quoted company rather than through a retail fund recommendation.

Key messages:

- Berenberg initiated Jupiter Fund Management at buy with a 187p target, citing the diversifying CCLA acquisition, positive flows and balance-sheet strength. The broker said Jupiter has shifted from material net outflows in 2021-24 to net inflows over the past 12 months.
- George Ensor and Mayan Uthayakumar are set to join Jupiter Asset Management from Liontrust. Liontrust said it would announce replacements while the pair continue managing their funds for the foreseeable future.
- Jupiter is rebranding its long-standing Merlin fund range as Signature Funds and expanding its Merlin Select range with two additional funds. The changes aim to broaden risk-profile coverage and support adviser CIP and MPS use.
- This is a daily roundup of analyst and fund-manager commentary on listed UK shares, including Jupiter. Jupiter is covered as a quoted company rather than through a retail fund recommendation.
- Jupiter fund manager Ned Naylor-Leyland argues that recent precious-metals gains were driven more by speculation than central-bank buying, and that the subsequent sell-off reflects that positioning. He says gold, silver and mining equities retain long-term potential.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Share Price: 32.0% of Jupiter's coverage (theme index 3.51, net tone +50)
- Fund Performance & Ratings: 20.0% of Jupiter's coverage (theme index 1.5, net tone +80)
- Fund Flows & AUM: 20.0% of Jupiter's coverage (theme index 1.44, net tone +80)

Notable positive coverage:

- 25 August 2026, sharecast.com: [Berenberg starts Jupiter Fund Management at ‘buy’, shares jump](https://www.sharecast.com/news/broker-recommendations/berenberg-starts-jupiter-fund-management-at-buy-shares-jump--23368078.html). Berenberg initiated Jupiter Fund Management at buy with a 187p target, citing improving flows, a diversified product range and a strong balance sheet. Jupiter shares rose 3.5% following the note.
- 25 August 2026, independent.co.uk: [Melrose soars and stocks climb as oil price cools](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/aim-melrose-nvidia-birmingham-citigroup-b3039041.html). Jupiter Fund Management shares rose 4.3% after Berenberg initiated coverage with a buy rating and a 187p price target. Berenberg cited Jupiter's positive flows and diverse product range.
- 11 August 2026, theaic.co.uk: [George Ensor off to Jupiter, RMMC to follow?](https://www.theaic.co.uk/aic/news/industry-news/george-ensor-off-to-jupiter-rmmc-to-follow). George Ensor and Mayan Uthayakumar, who recently left Liontrust, are reported to be joining Jupiter Asset Management. The RMMC board may consider moving its management contract to Jupiter.

- [Jupiter deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=jupiter&view=deep-dive)
- [Jupiter PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/jupiter.pdf)

### Liontrust

**Other shaped Liontrust's media profile during August 2026**

Liontrust ranked 11th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (1.5%) in the UK Asset Managers benchmark for August 2026, with 10 mentions and a net tone of −40.

August’s lower visibility centred on regulatory filings and announcement coverage concerning voting rights and executive share awards, as well as Kenny Watson’s departure and Global Income and Growth’s performance. August 2026: volume fell by 15, share declined 1.5 percentage points to 1.5% and rank moved to 11th; regulatory filings and announcement coverage included GAM’s 5.01% voting-rights disclosure, while reporting also covered Kenny Watson’s departure. Liontrust Global Income and Growth was the best-performing fund in its IA Global Equity Income sector over one year and a top-10 performer over longer periods. Its managers discuss its differentiated, small-cap and emerging-market positioning. Liontrust fixed-income manager Kenny Watson left the firm in August following Phil Milburn’s retirement. Liontrust granted below-policy-maximum LTIP options to its CEO and CFO, citing persistent net outflows, share-price decline and challenging shareholder returns. The awards include performance targets incorporating the River Global acquisition.

Key messages:

- Liontrust Global Income and Growth was the best-performing fund in its IA Global Equity Income sector over one year and a top-10 performer over longer periods. Its managers discuss its differentiated, small-cap and emerging-market positioning.
- Liontrust fixed-income manager Kenny Watson left the firm in August following Phil Milburn’s retirement.
- Liontrust granted below-policy-maximum LTIP options to its CEO and CFO, citing persistent net outflows, share-price decline and challenging shareholder returns. The awards include performance targets incorporating the River Global acquisition.
- George Ensor and Mayan Uthayakumar are set to join Jupiter Asset Management from Liontrust. Liontrust said it would announce replacements while the pair continue managing their funds for the foreseeable future.

Leading themes:

- Other: 40.0% of Liontrust's coverage (theme index 66.2, net tone −50)
- Leadership & Fund-Manager Moves: 30.0% of Liontrust's coverage (theme index 2.72, net tone −100)
- Financial Results & Share Price: 20.0% of Liontrust's coverage (theme index 2.04, net tone 0)

Notable positive coverage:

- 7 August 2026, trustnet.com: [How this top global income fund beat peers with no tech and a small-cap overweight](https://www.trustnet.com/news/13481662/how-this-top-global-income-fund-beat-peers-with-no-tech-and-a-small-cap-overweight). Liontrust Global Income and Growth was the best-performing fund in its IA Global Equity Income sector over one year and a top-10 performer over longer periods. Its managers discuss its differentiated, small-cap and emerging-market positioning.

Notable negative coverage:

- 19 August 2026, investmentweek.co.uk: [Kenny Watson leaves Liontrust following Phil Milburn’s retirement](https://www.investmentweek.co.uk/news/4534507/kenny-watson-leaves-liontrust-following-phil-milburns-retirement). Liontrust fixed-income manager Kenny Watson left the firm in August following Phil Milburn’s retirement.
- 7 August 2026, kalkinemedia.com: [Liontrust Asset Management (LIO). Awards LTIP Nil-Price Options to CEO and CFO with Caps Below Policy Limits](https://kalkinemedia.com/uk/news/announcements/liontrust-asset-management-lio-awards-ltip-nil-price-options-to-ceo-and-cfo-with-caps-below-policy-limits). Liontrust granted below-policy-maximum LTIP options to its CEO and CFO, citing persistent net outflows, share-price decline and challenging shareholder returns. The awards include performance targets incorporating the River Global acquisition.
- 7 August 2026, tradingview.com: [REG - Liontrust Asset Mgmt - Director/PDMR Shareholding](https://www.tradingview.com/news/reuters.com,2026-08-07:newsml_RSG6673Pa:0-reg-liontrust-asset-mgmt-director-pdmr-shareholding/). Liontrust disclosed LTIP option grants to CEO John Ions and CFO Vinay Abrol. The awards were restricted below prior levels and policy caps amid net outflows and a material share-price decline.

- [Liontrust deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08?entity=liontrust&view=deep-dive)
- [Liontrust PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08/reports/liontrust.pdf)

## Methodology

- **Share of coverage**: an organisation's mentions divided by all mentions of the organisations tracked in the same sector that month, in UK earned media. It is the central measure of media visibility in Omniscan benchmarks. "Average monthly share" is the mean of the monthly shares across the reporting period.
- **Mention**: one article that covers an organisation, classified as positive, neutral or negative in tone. Articles are deduplicated, and an organisation's own websites and passing sponsorship name-checks are excluded, so only earned media counts.
- **Net tone**: positive mentions minus negative mentions, as a percentage of all mentions (range −100 to +100).
- **Themes**: every article is assigned to one of the sector's editorial themes. A theme index above 1 means the organisation is covered on that theme more than its peers are; below 1 means less.
- **Calculation**: every figure is computed directly from the classified articles; narrative summaries are checked against those figures.
- **Sources**: UK national and international, trade and specialist, regional and local, and aggregator and syndication earned media.

## Other UK Asset Managers editions

- [UK asset managers media reputation tracker – 2026 year to date](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-ytd.md)
- [UK asset managers media reputation tracker – H1 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-h1.md)
- [UK asset managers media reputation tracker – July 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-07.md)
- [UK asset managers media reputation tracker – September 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-09.md)
- [All Omniscan media benchmarks](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks.md)

## How to cite

Omniscan, "UK asset managers media reputation tracker", August 2026 (1 August 2026–31 August 2026), published 1 September 2026. https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-asset-managers-2026-08