UK asset manager Liontrust posted outflows of £1 billion for the latest quarter, continuing a run of losses.
However, the trading update did show an improvement on the £1.4 billion outflows suffered in the same period for the previous year.
The £1.3 billion withdrawn from UK retail funds and model portfolios was partially offset by £471 million in investment gains.
Total outflows for 2025 reached £1.6 billion with assets under management of £21.5 billion by the year-end. As of January 10, AuM had risen to £21.7 billion.
According to Liontrust chief executive John Ions, two mandate wins on the institutional side led to £330 million of inflows for Q4.
Ions also cited the firm’s success in European equities as evidence of its “broadening investment capability”.
He also acknowledged the underperformance of UK funds. “UK valuations are compelling, especially with a backdrop of lower inflation and reducing interest rates, but a prolonged period of share price underperformance has raised threats to the country’s competitiveness,” said Ions.
“Co-ordinated action is required to restore confidence, and this will also unlock capital flows.”
Liontrust also launched a £10 million share buyback programme in November which was referenced by Ions in the trading update. “Our confidence in the outlook for Liontrust is reflected in the investment made in the business and the ongoing share buy backs.”
