Threadneedle has announced the launch of the Threadneedle Apex European Fund, an Ireland-domiciled equity long/short hedge fund. The fund has been launched to provide greater flexibility for investors wanting to access Threadneedle’s performance track record in a European-domiciled fund.

The Threadneedle Apex European Fund will be managed by Paul Doyle, using the same strategy that has delivered strong returns over the past 10 years for the Threadneedle European Crescendo Fund. Doyle, who has managed the European Crescendo Fund since 2008 and was co-manager since its inception in 2000, has a track record in generating alpha and has produced positive returns in a range of market conditions.

In managing the Apex European Fund, stock selection is the dominant driver of returns with a strong focus on company analysis and valuation. This is combined with a top-down overlay to manage sector exposures while retaining focus on monitoring risk. Doyle will be assisted by William Davies, head of European Equities at Threadneedle, and the Fund will leverage the experience of the wider pan-European investment team to provide broad market coverage and support idea generation.

Kris Haber, Global Head of Absolute Return Strategies, said: “We’re pleased to be launching this fund on the heels of our strong absolute return performance in what has been a challenging market environment for European equities. The Threadneedle Apex European Fund draws on the skill and experience of portfolio managers who have worked together for more than 10 years. The Fund offers access to a strategy that has delivered strong returns over the past 10 years within a European-domiciled vehicle, providing greater accessibility and flexibility for investors.”