BlackRock launches its first systematic multi-strategy UCITS fund

BlackRock has announced the launch of the Systematic Diversified Absolute Return UCITS Fund (SDAR), a liquid alternatives strategy with a market neutral focus. The new UCITS fund combines cutting-edge technology, scientific research and human analysis with the aim of offering a source of diversified and uncorrelated returns across different asset classes.

SDAR broadens the access of a wide spectrum of private banking and wealth management investors to BlackRock Systematic's multi-strategy capabilities, and is designed to strengthen portfolio resilience through consistent alpha generation.

Investment Approach

The fund extends the Systematic Equity Absolute Return (SEAR) range of UCITS beyond long/short equity strategies, incorporating a multi-strategy approach that adds systematic capabilities in fixed income and macro. Actively managed by BlackRock's Systematic team, SDAR aims to deliver stable returns over time, regardless of the direction of traditional equity or fixed income markets.

The strategy relies on multiple differentiated sources of alpha, spanning long/short positions in global equities, emerging markets, capital structure strategies, macro and relative value, all under a fully integrated comprehensive risk management framework.

Currently, the SEAR range manages $3.9 billion in assets, compared to the $1.2 billion it had at the beginning of 2025, serving both institutional and private banking clients in Europe, Asia and Latin America. More than 90% of BlackRock's systematic assets under management have outperformed the median of their comparables or their benchmark indices over three and five years, reinforcing the strength of the platform.

Liquid alternatives strategies can play a key role in mitigating macroeconomic risks and providing sources of diversified and uncorrelated returns. In 2025, BlackRock recorded strong growth in this category, with a 35% increase in global client assets, reaching $103 billion as of December 31, 2025.

SDAR is designed for investors seeking to diversify their exposure to beta, with lower levels of volatility and the flexibility offered by daily liquidity. The fund expands access to our systematic multi-strategy capabilities to help investors navigate complex market environments through market neutral strategies.

Simon Weinberger, head of Active Systematic Equity Portfolio Management at BlackRock Systematic and principal manager of SDAR