US asset manager Federated Hermes has hired an Asia head of wholesale development as part of its expansion plans in Hong Kong.
Federated Hermes has appointed Edward Lo as head of wholesale business development, Asia ex-Japan, according to a statement, based in Hong Kong. He will lead wholesale business development across the region, strengthening relationships with banks, wealth managers, family offices, and institutional clients. In the role, he reports to Jim Roland, head of distribution for Asia Pacific.
Lo has more than 20 years of asset management experience, most recently at Baillie Gifford, where he led financial intermediary distribution in Asia. Previously, he held senior roles at Pictet Asset Management and Allianz Global Investors.
Planned office launch
Lo’s appointment is part of Federated Hermes’ broader plans to launch a new office in Hong Kong, subject to regulatory approvals. The US asset manager announced its ambitions in January as part of its strategic focus on Asia’s wealth and retail distribution segments, where it sees “significant opportunity as client portfolios grow more sophisticated and distribution models shift towards long-term partnerships”.
“Asia is a strategically important region for Federated Hermes, and Asian clients are increasingly seeking investment partners that can support more sophisticated investment strategies and portfolio construction,” Roland commented.
“Edward’s extensive experience across the intermediary market, combined with his deep understanding of clients’ evolving needs, will strengthen our relationships with distribution partners and institutional clients across the region and support the continued growth of our Asia business.”
