Michael Alen-Buckley, executive chairman of UK-listed RAB Capital, believes his firm will become the leading alternative asset manager in Lo...

Michael Alen-Buckley, executive chairman of UK-listed RAB Capital, believes his firm will become the leading alternative asset manager in London as investor appetite for hedge funds continues to grow rapidly. Speaking at the annual Shorex Wealth Management Forum in Geneva, Mr Alen-Buckley said RAB has grown extremely fast since its launch in 1999 and has so far launched 15 funds. He said RAB plans to launch a technology fund by the end of the year and a number of other funds are planned next year. “There are no shortages of opportunities, but doing the appropriate due diligence is always required.” RAB Capital, set up by Mr Alen-Buckley and chief executive Philip Richards, now has more than $2.5 billion of assets under management. The executive chairman said the firm plans to expand into Asia with the hiring of the appropriate managers to seek out opportunities in the region. Acquisitions are also likely to be part of the strategy. In June RAB acquired Cross Asset Management. Mr Alen-Buckley emphasized the strong capital base of RAB, which has been achieved through investing profit back into the company. “This will enable us to weather any sharp downturn in markets,” he said.