ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.
Listen "Fund Selectors #3 - Ryan Hughes, Investments Director at AJ Bell"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode of Fund Selectors, host Lucy Walker interviews Ryan Hughes, Investments Director at AJ Bell.
The discussion covers Ryan’s 25-year career, from his early days in financial advice to building AJ Bell’s investment business from scratch.
Ryan shares insights into understanding liquidity, team dynamics in fund selection, and the role of culture in investment performance.
They also discuss the evolution of asset management and how firms must adapt to growing pressure on fees.
0:03 - Introduction by Lucy Walker0:22 - Guest introduction: Ryan Hughes1:10 - Ryan’s career journey: from financial advice to fund research2:58 - Early lessons in financial advice and pensions4:16 - The tech bubble and crash’s impact on Ryan’s career5:53 - Continuous learning in the investment world6:53 - Building AJ Bell’s investment business from scratch10:14 - The challenge of starting with a blank slate at AJ Bell13:03 - Importance of using passive investments with active only when there’s a strong case14:45 - AJ Bell’s focus on passive and active allocations15:56 - How AJ Bell works with both DIY investors and advisors22:06 - Experience and track record as a key factor in selecting active managers25:05 - The evolving importance of liquidity in fund selection30:18 - Deep understanding of managers’ philosophy and processes34:03 - How team dynamics affect investment decisions37:00 - Red flags in fund management: cultural and organizational issues44:46 - How active management can remain competitive49:04 - The success of investment trusts in lowering fees53:03 - Ryan’s recommended book: The Hour Between Dog and Wolf by John Coates
The discussion covers Ryan’s 25-year career, from his early days in financial advice to building AJ Bell’s investment business from scratch.
Ryan shares insights into understanding liquidity, team dynamics in fund selection, and the role of culture in investment performance.
They also discuss the evolution of asset management and how firms must adapt to growing pressure on fees.
0:03 - Introduction by Lucy Walker0:22 - Guest introduction: Ryan Hughes1:10 - Ryan’s career journey: from financial advice to fund research2:58 - Early lessons in financial advice and pensions4:16 - The tech bubble and crash’s impact on Ryan’s career5:53 - Continuous learning in the investment world6:53 - Building AJ Bell’s investment business from scratch10:14 - The challenge of starting with a blank slate at AJ Bell13:03 - Importance of using passive investments with active only when there’s a strong case14:45 - AJ Bell’s focus on passive and active allocations15:56 - How AJ Bell works with both DIY investors and advisors22:06 - Experience and track record as a key factor in selecting active managers25:05 - The evolving importance of liquidity in fund selection30:18 - Deep understanding of managers’ philosophy and processes34:03 - How team dynamics affect investment decisions37:00 - Red flags in fund management: cultural and organizational issues44:46 - How active management can remain competitive49:04 - The success of investment trusts in lowering fees53:03 - Ryan’s recommended book: The Hour Between Dog and Wolf by John Coates
In God we trust