Manulife Asset Management (Thailand) Enters into a Distribution Agreement with TISCO Bank to expand sales channels through “TISCO Open Architecture” platform

Wednesday 31 May 2017 10:59
Strategic partnership to expand Manulife Asset Management (Thailand)'s distribution network and reach to wider group of investors across the nation

On 25 May 2017, Manulife Asset Management (Thailand) Co. Ltd. ("Manulife AM (Thailand)") reached a strategic agreement with TISCO Bank Pcl. ("TISCO Bank"). TISCO Bank will become a distributor of Manulife AM (Thailand)'s mutual fund products in Thailand. The strategic partnership will significantly expand Manulife AM (Thailand)'s presence, leveraging on the extensive distribution network of TISCO Bank in the country.

Mr. Michael Reed, Chief Executive Officer of Manulife Asset Management (Thailand), commented: "We are pleased to have TISCO Bank to become our strategic partner in the distribution of all mutual funds managed by Manulife AM (Thailand) under "TISCO Open Architecture" platform. TISCO Bank has a strong presence and deep distribution network in Thailand. The partnership will enable investors to access an array of compelling investment choices. Our world-class services will empower our partner and, in turn, individual investors with real-time global and local investment insights that are much sought after in the market. This will drive efficiencies for clients' investment decisions, especially for off-shore investment solutions that have been exclusive to selective clients in the past."

Manulife AM (Thailand) is one of the few asset management companies in Thailand with access to a global network of on-the-ground investment professionals. Manulife Asset Management ("Manulife AM") has investment operations in 17 countries and territories, including Canada, the US and 10 markets across Asia (including Thailand). Manulife AM has more than 425 dedicated equity, fixed income and asset allocation investment professionals, including more than 150 in Asia.

Reed added, "Many investors in Thailand are looking for more investment options in their portfolios to achieve their financial goals. Leveraging the strategic partnership, it will allow a broader spectrum of investors across the nation to gain better access to our investment capabilities."

With effective by 2017, Manulife AM (Thailand)'s mutual fund products will be available to investors who open account and make transactions via TISCO Bank branches nationwide. Under the agreement, Manulife AM (Thailand)'s funds to be offered include 7 Foreign Investment Funds (FIFs), 2 Local Equities, 1 Long-Term Equity Fund (LTF), 2 Retirement Mutual Funds (RMFs) and 1 Money Market Fund.