Franklin Global Trust (FRGT – formerly Martin Currie Global Portfolio) has announced upcoming changes to its investment management arrangements, following Franklin Templeton’s decision to retire the Martin Currie brand in 2025.
Effective from 12 July 2025, the company’s portfolio management will formally transition from Martin Currie Investment Management (MCIM) to Franklin Templeton Investment Management (FTIML) and Franklin Advisers, Inc., subject to FCA approval. Zehrid Osmani and the Global Long-Term Unconstrained (GLTU) team will move to FTIML as part of this restructure.
In a further development, Jonathan Curtis – CIO of the Franklin Equity Group (FEG) – will join as co-portfolio manager alongside Osmani. Based in Silicon Valley, Curtis brings more than 30 years of investment experience and currently oversees a range of equity and venture capital strategies at FEG, which manages over US$130bn in assets. Curtis will begin working with the GLTU team immediately to ensure a seamless transition ahead of the formal change in July.
Chairman Christopher Metcalfe welcomed the move, noting: “We believe the significant research resources that FEG offer can enhance shareholder returns.”
The integration is designed to leverage FEG’s global equity expertise and extensive research platform while maintaining continuity in the company’s existing investment approach.
