The art of quant investing

Important Information

Warning/Important note: This website contains information which is only available to qualified investors as defined below. If you are not a qualified investor, please click “I Disagree” to leave the website.

By clicking on "I agree", I declare that:

I am a qualified investor as defined under 1
I have read and understood the Terms and Conditions and Disclaimers as described under 2

1 - This website may only be accessed directly or indirectly by the following persons in Singapore:
1) “institutional investor” under section 304 of the Securities and Futures Act 2001 (“SFA”), which means:
(i) the Government; (ii) a statutory board as may be prescribed by regulations made under section 341 of the SFA; (iii) an entity that is wholly and beneficially owned, whether directly or indirectly, by a central government of a country and whose principal activity is (A) to manage its own funds; (B) to manage the funds of the central government of that country (which may include the reserves of that central government and any pension or provident fund of that country); or (C) to manage the funds (which may include the reserves of that central government and any pension or provident fund of that country) of another entity that is wholly and beneficially owned, whether directly or indirectly, by the central government of that country; (iv) any entity (A) that is wholly and beneficially owned, whether directly or indirectly, by the central government of a country; and (B) whose funds are managed by an entity mentioned in sub-paragraph (iii); (v) a central bank in a jurisdiction other than Singapore; (vi) a central government in a country other than Singapore; (vii) an agency (of a central government in a country other than Singapore) that is incorporated or established in a country other than Singapore; (viii) a multilateral agency, international organisation or supranational agency as may be prescribed by regulations made under section 341 of the SFA; (ix) a bank that is licensed under the Banking Act 1970 (Cap.19); (x) a merchant bank that is licensed under the Banking Act 1970; (xi) a finance company that is licensed under the Finance Companies Act 1967; (xii) a company or co-operative society that is licensed under the Insurance Act 1966 to carry on insurance business in Singapore; (xiii) a company licensed under the Trust Companies Act 2005; (xiv) a holder of a capital markets services licence; (xv) an approved exchange; (xvi) a recognised market operator; (xvii) an approved clearing house; (xviii) a recognised clearing house; (xix) a licensed trade repository; (xx) a licensed foreign trade repository; (xxi) an approved holding company; (xxii) a Depository as defined in section 81SF of the SFA; (xxiii) an entity or a trust formed or incorporated in a jurisdiction other than Singapore, which is regulated for the carrying on of any financial activity in that jurisdiction by a public authority of that jurisdiction that exercises a function that corresponds to a regulatory function of the Authority under this Act, the Banking Act 1970, the Finance Companies Act 1967, the Monetary Authority of Singapore Act 1970, the Insurance Act 1966, the Trust Companies Act 2005 or such other Act as may be prescribed by regulations made under section 341 of the SFA; (xxiv) a pension fund, or collective investment scheme, whether constituted in Singapore or elsewhere; (xxv) a person (other than an individual) who carries on the business of dealing in bonds with accredited investors or expert investors; (xxvi) the trustee of such trust as the Authority may prescribe, when acting in that capacity; or; (xxvii) such other person as the Authority may prescribe.

2) “relevant person” under section 305(1) of the SFA, which means:
(i) An accredited investor; (ii) a corporation the sole business of which is to hold investments and the entire share capital of which is owned by one or more individuals, each of whom is an accredited investor; (iii) a trustee of a trust the sole purpose of which is to hold investments and each beneficiary of which is an individual who is an accredited investor; (iv) an officer or equivalent person of the person making the offer (such person being an entity) or a spouse, parent, brother, sister, son or daughter of that officer or equivalent person; or (v) a spouse, parent, brother, sister, son or daughter of the person making the offer (such person being an individual).

3) any person who acquires the units [in a collective investment scheme] as principal if the offer is on terms that the units may only be required at a consideration of not less than $200,000 (or its equivalent in a foreign currency) for each transaction, whether such amount is to be paid for in cash or by exchange of units in a collective investment scheme, securities, securities-based derivatives contracts or other assets, and if the following condition is satisfied: (i) the offer is not accompanied by an advertisement making an offer or calling attention to the offer or intended offer; (ii) no selling or promotional expenses are paid or incurred in connection with the offer other than those incurred for administrative or professional services, or by way of commission or fee for services rendered by any of the persons specified in section 302B(1)(d)(i) to (vi) of the SFA; and (iii) no prospectus in respect of the offer has been registered by the Authority or, where a prospectus has been registered (A) the prospectus has expired pursuant to section 299 of the SFA; or (B) the person making the offer has before making the offer (1) informed the Authority by notice in writing of its intent to make the offer in reliance on the exemption under this subsection; and (2) taken reasonable steps to inform in writing the person to whom the offer is made that the offer is made in reliance on the exemption under this subsection.

4) Or otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of, any other applicable provision of the SFA.

If you are not any of the types of persons described above, you are not authorized to enter this website and you should leave this website immediately.

2 Terms and Conditions
You acknowledge that you have read these Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) prior to accessing the website located at www.robeco.com/sg (“Website”) and you agree to be bound by the Terms. If you do not agree to all of the Terms, you are not an authorised user and you should not use the Website. The Website is owned by Robeco Singapore Private Limited (company registration number: UEN. 201541306Z), which is licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (“MAS”) pursuant to the Securities and Futures Act 2001 (“SFA”) of Singapore, and is managed by Robeco Singapore Private Limited and/or its affiliates (collectively, as “Robeco”). The Website is intended for and should be accessed by institutional investors or accredited investors (as defined under Section 4A of the SFA) of Singapore. The Website is not directed to, or intended for distribution to or use by, any person or entity who is a citizen or resident of or located in any locality, state, country or other jurisdiction where such distribution, publication, availability or use would be contrary to law or regulation or which would subject the Robeco to any registration or licensing requirement within such jurisdiction. It is your responsibility to observe all applicable laws, rules and regulations of any relevant jurisdiction. The content contained in the Website is owned by Robeco and/or its information providers and is protected by applicable copyrights, trademarks, service marks, and/or other intellectual property rights. You may not copy, distribute, modify, post, frame or link the Website, including any text, graphics, video, audio, software code, user interface, design or logos. You may not distribute, modify, transmit, reuse, repost, or use the content of the Website for public or commercial use, including all text, images, audio and/or video. Robeco may terminate your access to the Website for any reason, without prior notice. Neither Robeco, nor any of its associates, nor any director, officer or employee accepts any liability whatsoever for any loss arising directly or indirectly from the access of the Website. You agree to indemnity and hold Robeco, its associates, directors, officers or employees harmless against any and all claims, losses, liability, costs and expenses arising from your use of the Website due to violation of the Terms. Robeco reserves the right to change, modify, add or remove any parts of the Terms at any time and for any reason. The Terms shall deemed to be effective immediately upon posting. The Terms shall be governed by, and shall be construed in accordance with, the law of Singapore.

Disclaimers
The Website has not been reviewed by the MAS. Accordingly, the Website may not be accessed directly or indirectly to persons in Singapore other than (i) to an institutional investor under Section 304 of the SFA, (ii) to a relevant person pursuant to Section 305(1), or any person pursuant to Section 305(2), and in accordance with the conditions specified in Section 305, of the SFA, or (iii) otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of, any other applicable provision of the SFA.

Nothing in the Website constitutes tax, accounting, regulatory, legal or investment advice. The Website is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as an offer to sell or an invitation to buy any securities or products, nor as investment advice or recommendation or for the purpose of soliciting any action in relation to Robeco’s businesses, or solicitation by anyone in any jurisdiction in which such an offer or solicitation is not authorised or to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer and solicitation. Any reproduction or distribution of information from the Website, in whole or in part, or the disclosure of its contents, without the prior written consent of Robeco, is prohibited. By accessing to the Website, you agree to the foregoing.

The funds referred to in the Website are for information only. It is not a recommendation or investment advice, nor does it mean the funds is suitable for all investors. The contents of the website is not reviewed by the MAS. Any decision to participate in the funds should be made only after reviewing the sections regarding investment considerations, conflicts of interest, risk factors and the relevant Singapore selling restrictions. The Funds referred in this Website are notified with the MAS and are only available to the professional investors in Hong Kong and to qualified investors in Singapore. You should consult your professional adviser if you are in doubt about the stringent restrictions applicable to the use of the Website, regulatory status of the funds, applicable regulatory protection, associated risks and suitability of the funds to your objectives.

Any decisions made based on the information contained in the Website are the sole responsibility of yours. Any investments made or to be made shall be with your independent analyses based on your financial situation and objectives. The investments and strategies contained in the Website may not be suitable for all investors and are not guaranteed by Robeco.

Investment involves risks and may lose value. Historical returns are provided for illustrative purposes only and do not necessarily reflect Robeco’s expectations for the future. The value of your investments may fluctuate. Past performance is no indication of current or future performance. The Website may contain projections or other forward looking statements regarding future events or future financial performance of countries, markets or companies and such projection or forecast is not indicative of the future. The information contained in the Website, including any data, projections and underlying assumptions are based upon certain assumptions, management forecasts and analysis of information available on an “as is” basis and without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, and reflects prevailing conditions and Robeco’s views as of the date published or indicated, and maybe superseded by subsequent events or for other reasons. The information contained in the Website are accordingly subject to change at any time without notice and Robeco are under no obligation to notify you of any of these changes. Robeco expressly disclaims all liability for errors and omissions in the information presented in the Website and for the use or interpretation by others of information contained in the Website.

Robeco Singapore Private Limited holds a capital markets services licence for fund management issued by the MAS and is subject to certain clientele restrictions under such licence. An investment will involve a high degree of risk, and you should consider carefully whether an investment is suitable for you.

The art of quant investing

What makes investing both a science and an art? In The Art of Quant Investing, we share highlights from our 20-year Quant Equities journey. Explore how research, creativity, and experience shape innovation, with stories from portfolio managers, researchers, client portfolio managers, sales and clients.

Download the booklet to gain fresh perspectives, explore key highlights, and be inspired by the journey behind our strategies.

Download the full publication

A client-first approach to quant investing

Robeco’s Quant Equities journey began in 2003, responding to a client’s wish for a strategy combining the stability of passive investing with the potential for enhanced returns. This led to the creation of enhanced indexing, offering returns ahead of the market after costs, while controlling relative risk. By 2004, the flagship Global Developed Enhanced Indexing Equities strategy was launched, providing clients with a compelling alternative to traditional passive investments.

Today, Robeco manages over EUR 80 billion (as of December 2024) across quant strategies, with dedicated teams ensuring consistent results. “We focus on continuous improvement and navigating challenges with resilience, always prioritizing client trust and delivering value,” says Wilma de Groot, Head of Portfolio Management.

Discover in our full publication how we’ve built our team and culture by meeting challenges – both internally and from our clients. Explore insightful client interviews sharing their perspectives on quant investing.

Download the full publication

Cycles of connection

Weili Zhou, Deputy Chief Investment Officer and Head of Quant Investing & Research at Robeco, reflects on the power of connection and collaboration throughout her career. Early on, she focused on helping others, building trust, and forging meaningful relationships within the team. “When you help people without expecting anything in return, they start to see your value, your sincerity, and your strong work ethic,” she shares.

By offering support – whether through data insights or casual coffee chats – she built bonds that enriched both her work and her colleagues’. “Don’t box yourself in a vertical line of production. Always think about what you can add to another person’s process,” Zhou advises.

As her role grew, Zhou sought to instill this spirit in junior researchers, encouraging them to broaden their horizons and connect with the fundamental team. During tough periods like the ‘quant winter’, reconnecting brought invaluable insights, such as reconsidering how to value companies under new macro dynamics.

Speaking to colleagues from fundamental equities "adds perspective to what you’re doing,” Zhou emphasizes. For her, collaboration isn’t just productive – it’s fun. Her philosophy underscores that mutual support, diversity, and open dialogue drive innovation and lasting success. “That’s how I see it.”

Download the full publication

Sustainability and customization

Robeco’s approach has evolved into fully customizable solutions, helping clients specify risk, return and sustainability considerations for their investments. This can include elements such as carbon reduction or SDG alignment, which are supported by proprietary tools such as SDG and climate scores. With ongoing innovation in areas like sustainable investing, alpha and portfolio construction research, alongside a culture of in-house collaboration, Robeco continues to lead both in sustainable investing and customization.

Empowering clients to shape their portfolios

Robin van der Poel, Head of Wholesale Netherlands, highlights the transformative power of Robeco’s proprietary customization tool, which allows clients to design and refine their portfolios in real time. “Clients can set parameters, experiment with options, and adjust risk, return, and sustainability profiles to see their vision take shape instantly,” he explains. This hands-on approach not only showcases Robeco’s flexibility but also offers clients a tangible sense of ownership. “It’s empowering for clients to see their ideas come to life,” Robin adds.

The tool’s development was driven by client demand for greater sustainability, as standard indices often lack flexibility. “This innovation required significant effort, open discussions with clients, and ongoing refinement,” Robin shares. By combining creativity with tailored solutions – whether through funds or mandates – Robeco demonstrates its commitment to meeting client needs, fostering deeper engagement, and reinforcing its leadership in sustainable investing.

Download the full publication

Amara’s law

Genuine innovation excites when it has a material impact, with measurable outcomes that demonstrate clear value in the investment process. Wouter Tilgenkamp, Portfolio Manager, shares. “We have enhanced our factor definitions, introduced new alpha signals, and revamped our portfolio construction algorithms. We’ve updated our portfolio management tooling. Many things have evolved, but we still have a 20-year track record.”

He adds: “It’s similar to Amara’s law: most people overestimate what can be done in a year, but underestimate what can be done in a decade.”

Download the full publication

30years

Beyond 30 years of quantitative innovation – Transforming quant research into implementable innovations in client portfolios

20years

More than 20 years of live performance – Proven track record

6factor groups

Based on proprietary factor definitions, including AI-related novel signals

80billion

EUR in AuM – Entrusted as stewards of capital by clients from across the world

50experts

Well-resourced quant professionals team focused on delivering excellent client outcomes

1philosophy

Solutions are kept as simple as possible and as complex as necessary

Important information

This information is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as an offer to sell or an invitation to buy any securities or products, nor as investment advice or recommendation. The contents of this document have not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (“MAS”). Robeco Singapore Private Limited holds a capital markets services license for fund management issued by the MAS and is subject to certain clientele restrictions under such license. An investment will involve a high degree of risk, and you should consider carefully whether an investment is suitable for you.