As part of the ASI Research Institute, Ms Kochugovindan and Mr Gilhooly will work alongside a team of economists and researchers to analyse the major economic and policy drivers of markets, with Robert focusing on emerging markets, including China.

Their research will feed into the full range of investment processes across ASI, providing investment teams with macro insights to support portfolio decisions. Ms Kochugovindan and Mr Gilhooly will also lead strategic projects within their respective remits, such as analysing the drivers of global consumption trends or demographics across the BRICs, to establish how these affect markets in the long-term.

With over 18 years’ experience in the finance sector, Ms Kochugovindan joins ASI from Barclays Investment Bank where she held various positions in the asset allocation and global economics teams, focusing more on the UK and Brexit over the past year. She began her career in finance in the FX Strategy team at State Street and prior to this, taught economics at the University of London.

Sree Kochugovindan said: “This role is a great opportunity for me to draw on my deep knowledge and experience in global economics, working together with ASI’s geographic and sector specialists. I’m particularly looking forward to leading on and supporting others in thematic research programmes and special analytical projects, ensuring that my input into the Research Institute helps drive the strategy of the team and the wider growth of the business.”

Mr Gilhooly, after 10 years at the Bank of England where he worked as a Senior Economist covering Asia. With a primary focus on China macroeconomics, he also monitored financial stability across the country, as well as reporting on the global outlook to the Monetary Policy Committee. Prior to this, he held an economist role at the Office for National Statistics for six years, where he worked on big data analytics.

He said: “I’m delighted to join the ASI Research Institute as working in asset management is an exciting new avenue for me. I’m looking forward to supporting the economics and research team with its strategic priorities across emerging markets, as well as monitoring wider global themes, such as trade. As part of my role I’ll provide timely commentary to our key stakeholders and help to drive forward our understanding of emerging markets and the global economy.”

Jeremy Lawson, head of the ASI Research Institute, added: “Both Sree and Robert bring a wealth of broader analytical and research expertise to the Research Institute from their previous roles at Barclays Investment Bank and the Bank of England, respectively. Their knowledge will be invaluable to us as we work to provide analysis and research that helps clients navigate changes in the macro and market environment. They are both great assets to join the team and will help us elevate ASI’s client footprint and meet the growing demand for our services.”