Natixis Global Associates, the distribution arm of US-based asset manager Natixis Global Asset Management, has partnered with Absolute Asia Asset Management Limited to launch a new multi-cap stock fund called Absolute Asia Dynamic Equity Fund.

The fund is the first offered in the US by the Singapore-based firm and will focus on equity markets in Asia ex-Japan, Natixis said in a statement in 1 March. The platform is designed to address a broad-based need for investors seeking exposure to both emerging and developed markets in the Asia Pacific region.

"The economic vitality of the Asia Pacific region is quickly converting one of the world's most diverse geographic locations into an international marketplace of large-scale commerce, investment and development that is capturing the interest of many investors," said Bill Sung, the chief investment officer of Absolute Asia and co-portfolio manager of the new fund.

The Absolute Asia Dynamic Equity Fund, to be managed jointly by Mr Sung and Joyce Toh, will be available through Class A, C and Y shares. The minimum initial investment is $2500 for both A and C, and $100,000 for Y.

Absolute Asia Management's client roster reflects the growth and diversity of the Asian region, covering public and private pensions, sovereign wealth funds, wealth management banks, fund of funds managers, and family offices. As of 31 December 2009, it has $1.1 billion in assets under management.