Federated Investors is a well-known investment management firm that has been providing exceptional financial services to its clients for over 60 years. In 2020, the company announced a significant change – it would be rebranding as Federated Hermes.
This move came as a surprise to many, but the company’s leadership team had been considering it for quite some time. So, when did Federated Investors become Federated Hermes? Let’s take a closer look.
The History of Federated Investors
Federated Investors was founded in 1955 by John F. Donahue with just $400,000 in assets under management (AUM). Over the years, the company grew steadily and became known for its expertise in managing money market funds. By the 1980s, Federated had become one of the largest providers of cash management services in the United States.
In 1998, Federated acquired Liberty Financial Companies and expanded its reach into mutual fund management. Since then, the company has continued to grow through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. Today, Federated manages more than $500 billion in AUM and offers a wide range of investment products and services.
The Reason Behind the Rebranding
In June 2019, Federated announced that it had entered into an agreement to acquire a majority interest in Hermes Fund Managers Limited. Hermes is an established asset manager based in London that specializes in active management strategies across equities, fixed income, real estate, and private markets.
The acquisition was completed in early 2020 and marked an important milestone for Federated. With Hermes on board, the company could offer its clients an even broader range of investment solutions and expand its global reach.
To reflect this new chapter in its history, Federated decided to rebrand as Federated Hermes. The name change was not just symbolic; it also signaled the company’s commitment to sustainability and responsible investing. Hermes has a strong reputation for its ESG (environmental, social, and governance) capabilities, and Federated saw an opportunity to leverage this expertise across its entire business.
What Does the Future Hold for Federated Hermes?
The rebranding to Federated Hermes is still relatively new, but the company has already made significant progress in integrating Hermes’ capabilities into its existing offerings. In August 2020, Federated Hermes launched its first ESG-focused money market fund, which was designed to help investors meet their sustainability goals while maintaining liquidity.
Looking ahead, Federated Hermes plans to continue expanding its ESG offerings and leveraging Hermes’ expertise in sustainable investing. The company also aims to grow its presence in key international markets, particularly in Europe and Asia.
The Bottom Line
Federated Investors’ rebranding as Federated Hermes was a strategic move that reflects the company’s evolution over the years. With a broader range of investment solutions and a stronger focus on sustainability, Federated Hermes is well-positioned for long-term success. As always, the company remains committed to providing exceptional service and value to its clients.