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PBIL eyes wider investor pool with new discretionary portfolios

MD says the products will help boost market inclusiveness


MOHAMMAD MUFAZZAL | December 18, 2023 00:00:00


Syed M Omar Tayub

Diversifying its offerings to cater to the varying appetite for risks and returns, Prime Bank Investment Ltd (PBIL) unveiled five new discretionary products in October.

The leading investment bank says these products allow them to meet the diverse needs of investors -- each with different risk tolerance, investment horizon and financial goals.

"By offering a spectrum of risk-return profiles, we aim to make the capital market more inclusive and attract a wider segment of the population," PBIL Managing Director Syed M Omar Tayub told The Financial Express in a recent interview.

Referring to the number of active BO (beneficiary owner's) accounts, Mr Tayub pointed out that the number is way too low compared to bank accounts, mobile financial service users and digital banking participants.

Currently, the number of active BO accounts is above Tk 1.7 million while there are 140 million bank accountholders, over 210 million mobile financial service users and 7.6 million digital banking participants.

The number of active investors will increase significantly if the new products -- which will reduce investment risks -- can attract investors, he said.

"Our five discretionary products will serve each individual and institution considering their financial goal, return expectation and risk tolerance," said Mr Tayub.

Discretionary portfolio management is a type of investment management in which a selected portfolio manager invests on behalf of the clients.

The five products introduced by PBIL - a subsidiary of Prime Bank Ltd - are PrimeInvest Wealth Maximizer, PrimeInvest Monthly Investment Plan (MIP), PrimeInvest Capital Protected Scheme, PrimeInvest Equity Sharing Scheme and PrimeInvest Performance Scheme.

Of the schemes, the Monthly Investment Plan (MIP) is the only scheme that allows a minimum monthly investment of Tk 3000 by the client.

Of the remaining four schemes, the five-year PrimeInvest Capital Protected Scheme allows a minimum investment of Tk 1 million for once. This scheme has guaranteed payback of the investment fund in case of any loss after five years.

The remaining three schemes allow a minimum investment of Tk 0.5 million by each client for once.

PrimeInvest Equity Sharing Scheme offers a collaboration between the client and PBIL. In this 70:30 partnership, profits and losses are shared proportionately.

Conversely, the PrimeInvest Performance Scheme sees PBIL take 20 per cent of a client's profit, calculated above a predetermined high watermark.

"Our main goal is to build investor trust and confidence by providing a convenient investment journey and capitalising on market opportunities," said Mr Tayub.

PBIL facilitates seamless investment through online account opening and digital payment options, removing geographical barriers for global investors.

As a research-driven company, the managing director says PBIL prioritises in-depth analysis and data-backed decision-making.

Mr Tayub underscored the role of their margin monitoring team in minimising risks associated with margin loan business in non-discretionary portfolios.

"Clearly defined margin call procedures safeguard against potential risks," he said. "We ensure that clients are promptly notified of margin calls, and we take timely action to address any potential exposure."

The PBIL also offers tailored advisory services, assisting companies in capital raising through IPOs, bonds, and mergers and acquisitions.

They have successfully managed seven issues, facilitating capital raising of Tk 9.23 billion through IPOs and Qualified Investor Offers (QIOs).

Besides, the PBIL managed two rights offers worth Tk 1.22 billion and served as registrar for two IPOs valued at Tk 1.8 billion.

"Suitability and long-term impact remain our key

priorities in every deal we undertake," Mr Tayub concluded.


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