A robust investment portfolio will weather stock market fluctuations, and over the long term deliver growth and income. It is important to choose diversified, uncorrelated assets when building up a portfolio and make investment decisions based on the risk appetite and financial goals of the investor.
But asset allocation is a difficult task – balancing equities and fixed income, alternatives and cash as well as determining the geographical exposure guaranteed for maximum returns from minimum volatility even stumps some professionals.
A multi-asset fund of funds can provide a one-stop-shop for investors who want to outsource portfolio construction to the experts. All you need to decide is what level of risk you are comfortable with and choose a highly rated fund that matches that risk profile.
Jupiter Merlin Conservative
Top Rated Mixed Investment 0-35% Shares
This Morningstar analyst Bronze Rated fund was launched in 2012 to complete the suite of multi-asset funds offered by the Merlin team. This is the most risk averse of the funds and keeps a minimum of 45% in fixed income and cash with a maximum of 35% in equities, it can also hold commodities and property. In Morningstar’s view the managers’ combined skills and experience in asset allocation and fund selection make for a market-leading fund-of-funds team.
The managers believe in active fund management and are mindful of the importance of capital preservation as well as capital growth in delivering long-term returns for investors.
Henderson Cautious Managed
Top Rated Mixed Investment 20-60% Shares
This fund sits in what used to be known as the Cautious Managed sector. It is Silver Rated with an emphasis on a relatively plain-vanilla portfolio investing in UK equities, UK fixed income, and cash remains. Since inception to the end of Nov 2013, the fund has outpaced most of its Morningstar Category peers and has delivered attractive risk-adjusted returns for investors.
Neptune Balanced
Top Rated Mixed Investment 40-85%
This fund is a strong proposition for investors looking for a multi-asset offering with an emerging-markets tilt, say Morningstar analysts. It is Silver Rated and benefits from the extensive investment experience of manager Robin Geffen, who has been at the helm since 1998. This fund’s consistent track record, rigorous investment approach, and experienced manager are key to the success of this fund.