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Zephyr's Q1 2026 PSN Top Guns List Released

On May 22, 2026, Zephyr, a prominent subsidiary of Informa plc, announced the launch of its highly awaited PSN Top Guns List for the first quarter of 2026. This list serves as a critical benchmark for investors and asset managers by spotlighting the highest-performing separate accounts, managed accounts, and managed ETF strategies.

Market Challenges and Managerial Achievements

The first quarter of 2026 was marked by considerable economic challenges, including soaring oil prices and rising geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran, leading to increased market volatility. Nick Williams, PSN Product Manager, remarked, "In light of these obstacles, this quarter's Top Guns managers exhibited outstanding risk management skills and strategic foresight, effectively navigating these turbulent waters to safeguard client portfolios and seize new opportunities."

The PSN framework reflects a trend where separately managed accounts (SMAs) are gaining popularity among retail investors. Zephyr highlights this trend by emphasizing that disciplined and data-driven strategies can yield positive results even when market conditions are unfavorable.

The Robust SMAs Landscape

Zephyr's PSN database encompasses an impressive array of over 2,800 firms, 285 universes, and more than 21,000 products. This wealth of information details asset allocations, compliance protocols, key personnel, and much more. A standout feature of PSN is its extensive historical database, offering over 40 years of data with both net and gross-of-fee returns, enabling investors to make informed choices.

Ryan Nauman, a Market Strategist at Zephyr, noted that Q1 2026 showcased a confluence of three significant themes that influenced the investment environment: the conflict in Iran and its repercussions for energy markets, the potential disruptions caused by advancements in artificial intelligence within the tech industry, and the evolving expectations surrounding Federal Reserve policies.

Highlights of the Top Guns List

The Top Guns list includes several noteworthy investment strategies:

• - Small Cap Value Universe:

- Aegis Financial Corporation: Aegis Small Cap Deep Value (+16.7% for the quarter)
- First Wilshire Securities Management, Inc.: U.S. Small Cap Value Equities (+12.6% for the quarter)
- Earnest Partners, LLC: Small Cap Value Equity (+11.7% for the quarter)

• - Japan Universe:

- Fidelity Institutional Asset Management: Japan Growth (+8.3% for the quarter)
- Dimensional Fund Advisors: Japanese Small Cap Equity (+6.6% for the quarter)
- RBC Global Asset Management: RBC Japan Equity (+6.6% for the quarter)

• - Core Plus Universe:

- Advisors Asset Management: Core Plus Portfolio (+1.6% for the quarter)
- Newport Investment Advisors, Inc.: Flexible Bond (+1.5% for the quarter)
- Cypress Capital, LLC: Strategic Income (+1.0% for the quarter)

Enhancements and New Initiatives

To augment the reach of PSN contributors, Zephyr has introduced the PSN Manager Advantage, a comprehensive promotional and market intelligence package. This initiative not only provides digital coverage and brand publicity but also offers a dedicated landing page aimed at educating investors about individual SMAs. The Market Intelligence Package grants actionable insights derived from the PSN Database, further enhancing brand visibility.

Zephyr has also launched the Inside SMAs podcast, a dynamic platform designed to explore SMA strategies, market trends, and industry insights. This series engages thought leaders to share their perspectives on the evolving landscape of separately managed accounts. Those interested in participating as podcast guests are encouraged to reach out for more information.

Nauman’s complete commentary on the Q1 2026 PSN Top Guns can be accessed through Zephyr’s official website. Additionally, the detailed PSN Top Guns list along with an overview of the methodology is available online.

Conclusion

Zephyr continues to be at the forefront of investment solutions, providing valuable resources for both institutional and retail investors. By leveraging their extensive database and innovative tools, they help guide investment professionals through prevailing market uncertainties.

To learn more about the PSN list, Zephyr’s asset and wealth management software, and other offerings, visit the Zephyr Financial Solutions website.