Nikko AM Insights

The S&P/ASX 200 Accumulation Index returned -3.7% during the month. Australian equities lagged most developed markets during the month, as most markets took a breather in September.

Although the coronavirus outbreak has caused major disruptions and geopolitical risk is on the rise, markets are looking forward to recovery. In what appears to be a rapidly changing world, many things remain the same and indeed, may be changing for the better.

The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of internet-based healthcare services. Growing in importance, penetration and acceptance, telemedicine will revolutionise and augment Asia’s healthcare systems.

Yoshihide Suga, Japan’s new prime minister, is widely expected to retain his predecessor’s fiscal and monetary policies known as “Abenomics”.

Clearly, it remains difficult to predict events in this volatile environment, but in the interest of our clients, we do our best and fortunately this time, we had virtually unanimous agreement on a similar scenario as in June, both politically and economically.

It does not seem that there are enough differences between Abenomics and the proposed economic policies of likely new Prime Minister Suga to justify the completely new portmanteau “Suganomics,” as a few analysts have suggested.

Part 3: How does a portfolio manager invest in disruptive innovation?

Part 2: Could a disruptive innovation strategy sit in a client’s portfolio?

Part 1: Why invest in disruptive innovation?

On 1 September 2025, Nikko Asset Management will officially become Amova Asset Management. While our name and branding will evolve, our commitment to clients, investment philosophy and global expertise remain unchanged.

We remain a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group, and this renaming does not change our ownership, corporate structure, leadership or the way we operate.

Our focus continues to be on shaping a brighter future for our stakeholders through progressive investment solutions. This rebranding marks an exciting new chapter as we strengthen our position as a global asset manager, ensuring we continue to deliver the high standards of investment excellence and fiduciary responsibility that our clients expect.

Read the full announcement here.

Why is Nikko Asset Management changing its name to Amova Asset Management?

Our rebranding to Amova Asset Management signifies our commitment to continuous innovation, reflecting our evolution as a global asset manager. The new name encapsulates our dedication to steering clients towards their objectives in the constantly changing investment landscape by offering progressive investment solutions.

The name AMOVA represents our progressive and dynamic investment approach:

• "AM" for Asset Management, reinforcing our expertise
• "Mov" for movement, symbolising progress and innovation
• "Ova" inspired by "Nova", representing new frontiers and opportunities.

This change strengthens our identity as a trusted, global investment firm while remaining deeply rooted in our heritage.

Are there any changes in company ownership or structure?

No, there are no changes to our ownership, leadership, or corporate structure.

• We remain a wholly subsidiary of Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group
• Our leadership remain the same, ensuring stability and continuity

Our commitment to delivering Purposeful Performance, driving positive impact through responsible decision-making, remains stronger than ever.

What will change?

From 1 September 2025, you will notice:

• New Company Name – Nikko Asset Management => Amova Asset Management appear across all client communications
• Logo & Branding – A modernised logo and brand elements reflecting our future vision
• Website and Email Domains – Transition to new domain link and update of contact details
• Updated funds names

What stays the same?

• Our investment philosophy and global expertise
• Our funds, strategies and management approach
• Our commitment to delivering excellence

We look forward to continuing to serve you as Amova Asset Management. Thank you for your continued trust and partnership.