BMO GAM is the asset-management arm of BMO Financial and managed over $148 billion as of December 2022. Historically a geographically diverse organization, the firm made headlines when it sold its non-Canada business to Columbia Threadneedle in 2021 to focus on its Canadian strategy lineup. The decision made sense, as Canada has been its most successful market. But the quick turn in strategy was a departure from a decade-long globalization initiative and warrants some caution. That said, BMO GAM's commitment to its revised strategy is clear, as over 70 investment professionals have joined the firm since its shift in strategy. Notable additions include Sadiq Adatia as CIO and Bill Bamber as co-CEO; both are seasoned investors who bring much needed local market expertise and business acumen to the firm.
BMO GAM's suite of exchange-traded fund offerings remains compelling and includes both core portfolio building blocks and innovative satellite options with competitive pricing. Its mutual fund lineup has struggled historically, but it stands to benefit from expanded investment and operational resources. The firm also retains impressive responsible investing capabilities.