[ M E E T T H E D E S K | P I C T E T A S S E T M A N A G E M E N T ]
Notably, the co-heads explain that the aim for the desk is of course to add tangible value to the fund, but also to foster constructive discussions between traders, fund managers, and brokers.
Elsewhere, the topics of data and related innovations- including artificial intelligence – are also front of mind for the desk at present.
Discussing exactly why these are such dominant themes, Frew and Guesnet explain that this is“ particularly in terms of maximising the value of [ our ] internal datasets in relation to third-party offerings and harnessing AI to extract meaningful insights and efficiency gains”.
They add:“ Because every asset manager’ s needs are distinct, there is no universal solution, and budget realities require us to be thoughtful in how we leverage and share data.‘ Give-to-get’ data arrangements are a recurring discussion point, but that data has to be useful for decision-making and execution.”
When the discussion moves to the desk’ s empirical approach to trading, the co-heads explain how they are ensuring PAM remains ahead of the curve, positioning themselves for continued success in the evolving market.
One key area for the duo is best execution, an area in which both Frew and Guesnet stress that the team is“ extremely thorough”.
“ We have four levels of check: trader, desk head, co-head, compliance. This is done weekly. We
“ Patience is essential in managing illiquidity, volatility, and timing- knowing when not to act is as important as knowing when to act [ and ] equally vital is the cultivation of strong sellside relationships.”
JAMES FREW
34 // TheTRADE // Q3 2025