ING Investment Management: A Profile

ING Investment Management, though no longer operating under that specific name, held a prominent position in the global asset management landscape for many years. Its legacy and the entities that evolved from it continue to impact the investment world.

Historically, ING Investment Management was the asset management arm of ING Group, a global financial institution headquartered in the Netherlands. It provided a comprehensive range of investment solutions to institutional and retail clients across various asset classes, including equities, fixed income, real estate, and multi-asset strategies. The company’s investment philosophy centered on a research-driven approach, emphasizing fundamental analysis and risk management. They strived to deliver consistent, long-term investment performance for their clients.

A key strength of ING Investment Management was its global reach. It maintained a significant presence in Europe, North America, and Asia, allowing it to tap into diverse investment opportunities and serve clients with international investment needs. This global network enabled them to leverage local market expertise and tailor investment strategies to specific regional requirements.

The company’s investment process typically involved a structured approach, incorporating rigorous research, portfolio construction, and risk monitoring. Investment teams were often organized by asset class or investment style, fostering specialization and in-depth knowledge. They placed a strong emphasis on collaboration and information sharing across teams to ensure a holistic view of investment opportunities and risks.

Over time, strategic shifts within ING Group led to significant changes for ING Investment Management. Following the financial crisis of 2008, ING divested its insurance and investment management businesses as part of a restructuring plan. This resulted in the sale of a significant portion of ING Investment Management to various entities.

Specifically, the US-based operations were acquired by Voya Financial (formerly known as ING U.S.), while the European and Asian operations were largely integrated into NN Investment Partners (NN IP). NN IP subsequently became a standalone asset manager before being acquired by Goldman Sachs Asset Management in 2022.

Therefore, while “ING Investment Management” as a single entity no longer exists, its former operations continue to thrive under new ownership and branding. Voya Investment Management continues to serve clients in the US, while Goldman Sachs Asset Management benefits from the expertise and infrastructure inherited from NN IP, including the legacy ING Investment Management teams in Europe and Asia.

The legacy of ING Investment Management is characterized by its commitment to research, global reach, and a focus on delivering long-term value to clients. Its influence can still be seen in the investment strategies and expertise that reside within Voya Investment Management and Goldman Sachs Asset Management.