Active Management Finds New Favor as Market Volatility Persists

The research, conducted by PureProfile among 100 UK-based investment professionals in July 2026, highlights a shift in priorities where trust and longevity in a manager now outweigh short-term gains. For 93 percent of respondents, effective drawdown management is a vital service for retired clients, with nearly a third labeling the capability as critical to maintaining long-term financial stability.

Investment preferences show a distinct lean toward absolute return strategies, favored by 52 percent of the group, while 43 percent remain committed to relative return benchmarks. Tom Carroll, CEO of Rathbones Asset Management, noted that periods of stress sharpen the necessity for managers who pair disciplined risk assessment with clear communication. This collaborative approach serves to mitigate client anxiety during periods of market pressure, transforming the fund manager’s role from simple asset allocator to a source of stability in uncertain economic conditions.