"As a renowned entity with a compact, exclusive feel, we operate on a global scale."
In a strategic move, Franklin Templeton, a leading global investment management firm, merged with Legg Mason in 2021. This merger has significantly expanded Franklin Templeton's product portfolio and strengthened its sustainability strategies.
The merged organization, now managing 1.3 trillion euros in assets, can now offer alternative products across various investment approaches. These include bonds, infrastructure, value, growth, and US-focused small caps. In the bond segment, the Brandywine Global Income Optimiser is one of the new alternatives available.
The merger was a strategic move to fill gaps in Franklin Templeton's product portfolio. It combined the strengths of a large organization with the flexibility of boutique-style investment. The complementary product range between Franklin Templeton and Legg Mason's boutiques played a crucial role in this merger.
Many of the acquired boutiques, such as ClearBridge Investments and Martin Currie, have been serving institutional clients who have been demanding ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors for many years. This merger has enabled Franklin Templeton to serve more customers worldwide and strengthen its sustainability strategies.
Franklin Templeton has established the Franklin Templeton Investment Institute, a research think tank with expertise from over 70 locations worldwide. This Institute provides research and knowledge to investment professionals, customers, and the public. The merger has also allowed for cross-selling opportunities in both institutional and retail customer segments.
The new balance of institutional business and retail distribution within the merged organization is 50% for each segment. This balance ensures that Franklin Templeton can cater to a wide range of customers while maintaining its focus on delivering high-quality investment solutions.
The merger has also allowed Franklin Templeton's clients to benefit from the global expertise of ESG-proven investment houses ClearBridge Investments and Martin Currie. For instance, ClearBridge Investments sets standards with its Sustainable-Leaders strategy.
Moreover, new group subsidiaries like Western Asset Management and Brandywine Global offer best-in-class solutions in the bond market. Client meetings are becoming more intense and lasting longer due to the expanded product portfolio, as clients seek to understand and benefit from the new offerings.
The company formed through the merger with Legg Mason is Franklin Templeton. Within the merged entity, it plays a key role in strengthening sustainability strategies by integrating ESG principles into investment management. The merger has positioned Franklin Templeton among the top 10 global asset managers, ready to face the challenges and opportunities of the future.
The Franklin Templeton Investment Institute continues to provide research and knowledge to investment professionals, customers, and the public, ensuring that the merged organization remains at the forefront of the investment industry.
