Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net inflow of $1.5 billion in April, with trends improving in May, despite a challenging environment for U.S. markets [5][7][9] - Operating income grew by 18% year-over-year in the first quarter, with a four percentage point expansion in margins [44] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fixed income mandates continue to perform well, particularly in Europe, contributing to the positive net flows [6][9] - Active equity remains a significant revenue source, accounting for over 35% of total revenues, but faces challenges in outperforming benchmarks [25][26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has approximately $275 billion in client assets in Asia, with Japan showing significant growth, managing $80 billion, double the amount from four years ago [12][13] - The EMEA region reported $14 billion in flows in the first quarter, with a mix of fixed income and ETFs driving performance [42] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to simplify and streamline its business while focusing on core activities and markets, particularly in Asia and India [20][21] - The strategic focus includes enhancing the active equity segment and expanding the ETF business, which has shown strong growth [45][49] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that cash on the sidelines remains high, with 20-25% of private wealth clients holding cash, indicating potential for future investment [4][78] - The company is optimistic about the growth potential in Asia, particularly in China, driven by demographic changes and government reforms [12][16] Other Important Information - The company has adopted a hybrid approach for its Alpha platform, which is expected to reduce implementation time and maintain cost efficiencies [87][88] - The partnership with Barings is aimed at expanding alternative credit strategies, leveraging both firms' strengths [55][60] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the key drivers of your outperforming inflows compared to other players? - The company attributes its success to strong relationships and a long-standing presence in European and Asian markets, which have led to positive inflows despite challenges in the U.S. [8][9] Question: How is the active equity segment performing amid market volatility? - Active equity is crucial for the company, but it faces challenges as managers need to perform in the top quartile to attract and retain clients [25][26] Question: What is the outlook for the ETF business? - The ETF business is expected to continue growing, with the potential for active ETFs to reclaim some market share from passive investments [49][50] Question: How does the company plan to manage expenses moving forward? - The company has successfully reduced expenses while investing in growth areas, and it aims to continue finding operational efficiencies [91][92] Question: What are the capital allocation priorities? - The company plans to focus on investing back into the business, maintaining a payout ratio between 40-60%, and is open to share buybacks as opportunities arise [106][110]