BHF-BANK, the second-largest private bank in Germany, has announced a strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Investment Company (ADIC).

The strategic co-operation will begin with ADIC’s asset management business providing advisory services to the investment company of BHF-BANK, Frankfurt-Trust, and its successful FT Emerging Arabia and FT Emerging Arabia (USD) funds.

Frankfurt-Trust’s portfolio managers will benefit from the intimate regional expertise of ADIC’s asset management professionals, receiving country, sectoral and individual stock recommendations.

ADIC is one of the leading financial services firms in the Mena region. Owned by Abu Dhabi Investment Council, ADIC was the first investment company to be established in the UAE, and has been investing successfully in the region for over 30 years.

BHF-BANK, established in 1854, is Germany’s second-largest private bank, and ranks among the leading portfolio managers in the German-speaking countries.

The bank provides its clients with market access and investment opportunities worldwide, and attracted some Euros 5 billion in new assets in 2008.

“We are very proud that one of the leading asset management companies in the Gulf region has chosen our bank to be its strategic partner. The co-operation both companies are set to establish is unique in Europe and will open up a whole new world of investment opportunities for our clients,” commented Bjoern H. Robens, member of the board of managing directors of BHF-BANK responsible for Private Banking and Asset Management.

“We believe that this privilege also confirms the long-term and trusting relationship our bank has maintained with the Emirate of Abu Dhabi,” Robens added.

“BHF-BANK is a highly prestigious institution with a deserved reputation for prudent investment; it is an honour for ADIC to be working closely with them,” said Nazem Al Kudsi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Investment Company.

“Investors are demanding an increasing exposure to Mena investments, but historically they have had little access to these opportunities. BHF-BANK has recognized this gap, and we look forward to a strong partnership that will benefit their clients,” he added.-TradeArabia News Service