Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust Appoints Sreevardhan Agarwal as Lead Manager
3 DEC, 2024
By Jose Luis Palmer from RankiaPro Europe
The Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust (SST) has announced the appointment of Sreevardhan Agarwal as its new lead manager, effective immediately. This leadership transition follows the departure of former lead manager Vinay Agarwal from FSSA Investment Managers, the trust's investment manager.
Leadership Change Amid Strong Performance
The SST board expressed gratitude for Vinay Agarwal’s contributions to the trust’s success, wishing him well in future endeavors. The change comes just weeks after SST reported a net asset value (NAV) total return of 18.6% for the financial year ending 31 August 2024, alongside a 15.3% increase in its share price.
Currently managing £430 million in assets, the trust continues to trade at a 16.3% discount to NAV, according to the Association of Investment Companies.
A Familiar Leader with Proven Expertise
Sreevardhan Agarwal steps into the lead manager role after five years as SST’s deputy and co-manager. His extensive involvement in managing the portfolio makes him well-positioned to guide the trust's future. Supporting him will be Martin Lau, Managing Partner at FSSA, and the wider FSSA team.
Commenting on the transition, an FSSA spokesperson highlighted the firm’s ongoing focus on its core strengths, emphasizing the importance of Asian and emerging market equities in its investment strategy.
This appointment ensures continuity for the trust as it builds on its recent performance and navigates the opportunities within smaller companies across Asia and emerging markets.
