Baillie Gifford European: Qual. Rating Updated
Frequent manager changes are a concern, but the house process provides Baillie Gifford European with a semblance of stability.
"This fund has changed hands with startling frequency. Before Angus Franklin and Peter Hollis took charge in May 2008, five different managers have preceded them since May 2003. Following the most recent departure of John Burke in Nov. 2008, Tom Coutts stepped up to form a management trio with Franklin and Hollis. However, there is no end to the turnover in sight as Hollis will be leaving the firm in April 2011. Given Hollis’ role as head of European Equities, his departure will be a big loss and, at the time of writing, Baillie Gifford had not announced a replacement. Such frequent changes would usually lead to poor returns, but Baillie Gifford’s process is the glue that has held the fund together."
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