In June 2021, Litman Gregory Asset Management became part of global asset management firm iM Global Partner (iMGP). The strong alignment in investment philosophy, expansion in research capabilities, and strengthening of investment solutions were among the key drivers in the decision. iM Global Partner’s research focus is global in nature and the expertise of the global group includes analysts in London, Paris, Luxembourg, and the U.S. Following the merger, the U.S. research team was integrated, with iMGP Global Chief Investment Officer Philippe Uzan leading the group and Jeremy DeGroot becoming Chief Investment Officer, Asset Management U.S. and reporting to Philippe.
After 24 years with Litman Gregory/iMGP, Jeremy will be leaving the firm effective September 20, 2023. We are grateful to have benefited from Jeremy’s keen intellect, deep investment knowledge and discipline during his long tenure. We are also pleased to announce that Jack Chee, Director – Portfolio Management and Head of Fixed Income Strategies takes on the U.S. CIO – Asset Management role. Jack will report to Philippe Uzan and will oversee the U.S.-based asset management team, which will add another analyst in the near future. Jack joined Litman Gregory in 2000 and worked closely with Jeremy doing manager due diligence, asset class research and serving as a co-Portfolio Manager on several funds the firm advises. Jeremy is working closely with Jack to transition his CIO responsibilities.
Jeremy’s co-Portfolio Managers on the funds – Jack Chee (new U.S. CIO), Jason Steuerwalt (iMGP-U.S. Head of Alternatives), and Kiko Vallarta (SVP Portfolio Manager) – continue to have direct oversight of the funds including ongoing due diligence and manager selection. It is important to note we have always had a team approach to fund oversight, investment research and portfolio management for all funds. Each fund is supported by the full breadth of the expansive global iMGP Research team.
It is never easy to say goodbye to a long-time colleague but given the strength and depth of our team, we believe our overall asset management framework continues to be strong. Looking ahead, it is our goal to continue to enhance our research capabilities as we seek to deliver on our funds’ mission to deliver strong relative long-term performance for our shareholders.