First Asset Management Enters US Equity Market with FBN Blended Dollar Fund Launch

First Asset Management, a leading Nigerian investment firm and subsidiary of First HoldCo Plc, has introduced the FBN Blended Dollar Fund, offering investors a strategic mix of U.S. equities and high-profile Nigerian investments. The fund aims to optimise returns and provide a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations.

In a recent webinar, part of the First Asset Management Leading Conversations Series, financial experts discussed the benefits of the newly launched fund. Moderated by esteemed journalist Omohefe Osemere, the panel featured key industry figures, including Laura Fisayo-Kolawole, Head of Equities & Alternative Asset Management at First Asset Management; Robert Hageneers, Head of Markets at FirstBank UK; Gbolahan Ologunro, Portfolio Associate at First Asset Management; and Dr. Ayodeji Akamu, Research Associate for Energy & International Economics at First Bank of Nigeria Limited.

The discussion centered on the theme, “Blending Returns in a Dynamic Global Environment: Navigating Trump’s Trade Agreement,” examining its implications for equity markets in Nigeria and the U.S. Panelists provided insights into global investment strategies amid ongoing economic volatility.

During the session, First Asset Management detailed the significance of the FBN Blended Dollar Fund and encouraged investors to leverage this opportunity. With economic uncertainties on the rise, investors are increasingly looking for diversified strategies that balance risk and reward. The positive shift in investor sentiment towards Nigeria has been driven by improvements in monetary policy, increased domestic crude oil production, and rising non-oil revenue from VAT and customs duty collections—factors expected to sustain confidence in the market.

Laura Fisayo-Kolawole highlighted the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s economic policies, which aim to protect local industries through high tariffs on imports. She noted that while optimism remains regarding Trump’s first-term policies, the full effect of the new tariffs, set to take effect on April 2, 2025, is yet to be determined.

Ike Onyia, Managing Director of First Asset Management, emphasized the versatility of the FBN Blended Dollar Fund, positioning it as an ideal option for growth-focused investors. The fund allocates 20% to U.S. equities and 80% to fixed-income instruments, money market instruments, and Eurobonds domiciled in Nigeria, offering diversified exposure to global markets. Onyia expressed enthusiasm about the product’s potential to help investors navigate an evolving economic landscape.

First Asset Management continues to be a leading investment manager in Nigeria, providing tailored solutions for individual and institutional investors. As a subsidiary of FBNHoldings Plc, the firm offers a broad spectrum of investment products and services across various asset classes and sectors.