Pacific Asset Management has acquired Asset Value Investors Limited for an undisclosed amount. The deal transfers ownership of the London-based investment manager, which was established in 1985 to oversee the assets of British Empire Trust plc, then a £6 million listed investment company. That trust was renamed AVI Global Trust in May 2019, and Asset Value Investors also manages the AVI Japan Opportunity Trust.
Asset Value Investors runs a deep value, long-only global equity strategy. The firm focuses on companies that own quality but undervalued businesses, where the net asset value exceeds the current share price. Pacific Asset Management, the acquiring party, is adding this specialist capability to its existing operations, broadening its range of investment offerings beyond its current focus.
The acquisition is strategic for Pacific Asset Management because it brings in a team with a distinct, disciplined approach to value investing, particularly in global and Japanese markets. For Asset Value Investors, joining a larger group provides access to additional resources and distribution channels, which could support the continued management of its two trusts without altering its core investment philosophy.
The transaction is expected to create operational efficiencies in areas such as compliance, back-office functions, and client reporting, while preserving the independent decision-making of the investment team. No changes to the management of the AVI Global Trust or the AVI Japan Opportunity Trust have been announced.
With the ownership now under Pacific Asset Management, the combined entity will focus on maintaining the existing strategies and supporting the long-term performance of the trusts. The deal reinforces Pacific’s position in the investment management sector, while Asset Value Investors continues its work with the same portfolio approach it has followed since its founding.